An Unusual Mode of Facial Thermal Burn Injury by an Oxygen Mask Caught Fire While Smoking in a Patient With COPD: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Unusual mode burns are not uncommon. In developing countries like India where bidi (local cigarette; made from tobacco and plant leaves without filter), smoking is very common and is a common cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Individuals who are suffering from COPD are usually addicted to smoking. Smoking in hospitals due to improper checking of belongings is considered poor safety measures and negligence of the hospital community and lack of knowledge and awareness among the general public. Methods: The patient course in the hospital after the facial burn injury through oxygen face mask was studied. Results: On the 4th postburn day, the patient’s condition improved, he was able to breathe, talk, and swallow well following management. Conclusion: Facial burn injury is the most commonly associated with inhalational injury. The proper early management of inhalational injury by intubation and mechanical ventilation results in the improvement of hypoxia or hypercapnia along with steroid administration to reduce proinflammatory cytokines and reduce further cellular injury. Use good quality tubing of nasal prong for oxygen supply at home in COPD patient is recommented.