which rare lung disease is related to the presence of diacetyl in e-liquid? how does diacetyl cause this disease?

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which rare lung disease is related to the presence of diacetyl in e-liquid? how does diacetyl cause this disease?

The rare lung disease related to the presence of diacetyl in e-liquids is called bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly known as "popcorn lung." Diacetyl is a buttery-flavored chemical used in some e-cigarette flavors and other food products like microwave popcorn. Diacetyl causes popcorn lung by inhalation, which leads to inflammation and scarring of the bronchioles, the smallest airways in the lungs. This scarring narrows and thickens the airways, impairing airflow and reducing lung capacity permanently. The damage is irreversible and may progress to severe respiratory impairment or respiratory failure. The mechanism is believed to involve direct damage to the respiratory epithelium with disorganized fibrotic repair after exposure to the chemical. This causes chronic inflammation, airway obstruction, and impaired oxygen transfer in the lungs. Users of e-cigarettes with creamy or buttery flavors may inhale diacetyl deeply into their lungs, increasing the risk of this disease.

Summary:

  • Disease: Bronchiolitis obliterans (popcorn lung)
  • Cause: Inhalation of diacetyl in e-liquids
  • Mechanism: Direct damage to the lung airway cells causing inflammation, scarring, narrowing, and permanent lung damage
  • Symptoms: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue; no cure, only symptom management

This highlights the risks associated with flavored vaping products containing diacetyl.