Author(s)

Kendall Moore, Henry Young II, Matthew F. Ryan^*

Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.

Electronic nicotine delivery systems also known as electronic cigarettes (or e-cigarettes) are marketed by their manufactures as a safer alternative to tobacco cigarettes because of potentially reduced delivery of toxins. However, the scientific evidence and the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes are limited. We describe a case of a 43-year-old man who had been smoking electronic cigarettes excessively for three days and presented with acute dyspnea, increased work of breathing and tachycardia. Subsequent chest x-ray revealed bilateral pleural effusions. In addition, the patient had a new oxygen requirement and was thus admitted with a diagnosis of pneumonia and bilateral pleural effusions. The case and the potential harmful effects of electronic cigarettes are discussed herein.

Electronic Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Pneumonia, Pleural Effusion, Vaping

Moore, K. , Young II, H. and Ryan, M. (2015) Bilateral Pneumonia and Pleural Effusions Subsequent to Electronic Cigarette Use. Open Journal of Emergency Medicine, 3, 18-22. doi: 10.4236/ojem.2015.33004.