Toluene Habituation

Abstract

IN the past few years, there have been isolated reports describing adults as well as children who have sniffed or inhaled volatile fumes of various organic compounds.^{1 2 3 4 5} Such behavior is usually directed toward the production of a state of elation or exhilaration; however, headaches, dizziness and unconsciousness may result. Since intoxications of this type are rather unusual, it seems worthwhile to describe in detail the case of a patient who inhaled toluene vapor with regularity for a period of ten years.Case ReportA 30-year-old married man was admitted to the University Hospital in February, 1961, because of recurrent headaches . . .