Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis in a Child Associated with Direct Inhalation Exposure of an Insect Repellant Containing DEET

Abstract

We describe a child who developed hypersensitivity pneumonitis after direct inhalational exposure to N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET). This chemical is ubiquitous in the United States in the form of personal insect repellants. There has never been a case report describing the adverse effects from direct inhalation of a DEET-containing insect repellant. In addition, the potential injurious role of other solvents in the insect repellant should be noted. (Pediatr Asthma Allergy Immunol 2006; 19[1]:44–50.)