Lexikon

the entry of secretions or foreign material − including gaseous chemical substances, vapours of liquids or particles of solids − into the trachea and lungs. One of the exposure routes of hazardous chemicals, causing chemical pneumonia, which is an unusual type of lung irritation. Pneumonia usually is caused by a bacteria or virus. In chemical pneumonia, inflammation of lung tissue is from poisons or toxins. Only a small percentage of pneumonias are caused by chemicals.

Many substances can cause chemical pneumonia, including liquids, gases, and small particles, such as dust or fumes, also called particulate matter. Some chemicals only harm the lungs; however, some toxic materials affect other organs in addition to the lungs and can result in serious organ damage or death.

inhaling fluid or a foreign body into the bronchi and lungs, often after vomiting.

See also: aspiration