ORGAN DIRECTED TOXICITY (RESPIRATORY)

Irritation
Inflammation
Pulmonary Edema
Bronchoconstriction
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Carcinogenesis

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System

Irritation

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System
This mechanism of toxicity occurs when a toxicant causes irritation to the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Acute Irritation

IRRITATION
Is typically reversible once the exposure to the toxicant is stopped.

Ammonia
Chlorine
Formaldehyde

Examples of Respiratory Irritants

Inflammation

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System
This mechanism of toxicity occurs when a toxicant causes inflammation in the respiratory tract, leading to acute or chronic respiratory problems.

Chronic Inflammation

INFLAMMATION
Can lead to scarring and permanent damage to the lungs (COPD patients).

Acute Inflammation

INFLAMMATION
Can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness.

Silica
Asbestos
Tobacco Smoke
Berylium

Examples of Inflammatory Toxicants

Pulmonary Edema

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System
This mechanism of toxicity occurs when a toxicant causes fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Severe cases of pulmonary edema can be life threatening.

Cyanide
Chlorine
Phosgene

Example of Toxicants that can cause Pulmonary Edema

Bronchoconstriction

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System
This mechanism of toxicity occurs when a toxicant causes the muscles in the airways to contract, leading to the narrowing of the airways and difficulty breathing. This can cause symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath.

Sulfur Dioxide
Ozone
Diesel Exhaust
Nicotine

Example of Toxicants that can cause Bronchoconstriction

Pulmonary Fibrosis

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System
This mechanism of toxicity occurs when a toxicant causes scarring and thickening of the lung tissue, leading to permanent damage and reduced lung function. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath and chronic cough.

Asbestos
Silica
Beryllium

Examples of Toxicants that can cause Pulmonary Fibrosis

Carcinogenesis

Mechanisms of Toxicity in Respiratory System
This mechanism of toxicity occurs when a toxicant causes damage to the DNA in the cells of the respiratory tract, leading to the development of cancer. This can cause symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Radon
Benzene
Vinyl Chloride

Examples of Toxicants that can cause Carcinogenesis