Chemical Asphyxiant Toxidrome

Following exposure to hydrogen cyanide, the following toxidromes appear with 

Severe breathing difficulties with respiratory arrest 

The expression of the classic cyanide toxidrome can be very variable depending on the degree of exposure. For example, there is a wide variation in the perception of the classic almond smell associated with hydrogen cyanide. 

Following inhalation of a high concentration of hydrogen cyanide, there is irritation of the nose and larynx followed by acute dyspnoea and a sensation of suffocation. This is followed by rapid breathing (Kussmaul breathing) in response to the lactic acidosis created by cyanide. 

After high-level exposure, the heart rapidly develops multiple extrasystoles, followed by asystolic cardiac arrest occurring within a few seconds of exposure in the most severe cases. 

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S3mdromes following the blockage of carriage and use of oxygen in the body (chemical asphyxiant toxidromes)... 

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