Editorials

CS gas injury to the eye

Ocular injuries with acid or alkaline are common and may have devastating consequences.¹ Recently the number of cases of assault in which O-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS) gas aerosol has been used as the weapon has been increasing. Victims have been sprayed on the face and eyes at close range. Although the sale of CS gas to individuals is illegal in Britain, the gas is still available.²

The compound is supplied as a white solid, which when disseminated characteristically forms a smoke of minute droplets or particles. Being highly soluble in water, it irritates mucous membranes and causes a pronounced local reaction within seconds of contact. The toxic basis of its affects is uncertain and is believed to result from the release of highly reactive chlorine atoms on to the skin and mucous membranes. The pronounced irritation is caused by the . . . [Full text of this article]

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This article has been cited by other articles:

• Fraunfelder, F T (2000). Is CS gas dangerous?. BMJ 320: 458-459 [Full text]  
• Anderson, P., Lau, G., Taylor, W., Critchley, J. (1996). Acute effects of the potent lacrimator o-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS) tear gas. Hum Exp Toxicol 15: 461-465 [Abstract]  
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• Wheeler, H., Murray, V. (1995). Poisons centre will monitor cases. BMJ 311: 871a-871 [Full text]  
• Scott, R. A H (1995). Illegal "Mace" contains more toxic CN particles. BMJ 311: 871b-871 [Full text]