A literature review: therapy for phosgene poisoning.

A literature search designed to collect information on therapy for phosgene poisoning has been conducted for the period 1920-1982. To achieve this goal, literature services were consulted, cross references were carefully followed and, whenever possible, unpublished reports (e.g., from Edgewood Arsenal and Porton Research Station) were evaluated. The various therapeutic agents and measures described in the literature are presented in alphabetical order. When available, detailed data are given for the phosgene dose, interval of time between exposure and institution of therapy, therapeutic effect and parameters used to assess efficacy. A final summary presents general recommendations for therapy and for further research.