Underdiagnosed Paraquat Induced Pneumothorax and Pneumomediastinum, The “Daisley Barton Syndrome”: A Clinical Feature Of Paraquat-Induced Acute Lung Injury

The incidence of paraquat ingestion for self-harm, occurs at an alarming rate in Trinidad and Tobago W.I and is virtually synonymous with acute multi-organ failure and death in most settings. Yet recognition of pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum as clinical signs of acute paraquat lung injury remains a challenge amongst medical practitioners. We present a case of paraquat poisoning with these clinical features, which were recognized two days after presentation. The pathophysiological mechanisms for this clinical entity are presented in an effort to alert physicians of this feature as a part of acute paraquat lung injury and to stimulate research in effective therapy.