Question

Blood analysis of a patient reveals an unusually high quantity of carboxyhaemoglobin content. Which of the following conclusions is most likely to be correct? The patient has been inhaling polluted air containing an unusually high content of-

• A. chloroform
• B. carbon disulphide
• C. carbon monoxide
• D. carbon dioxide

Answer 1

The correct option is C

carbon monoxide

The correct option is C.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an air pollutant that is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels. Automobile exhausts are the main source of carbon monoxide.
2. CO is extremely poisonous since it blocks oxygen transport to tissues.
3. CO binds to haemoglobin and forms carboxyhaemoglobin which is 200-300 times more stable than the oxyhaemoglobin complex.
4. Inhaling polluted air containing a high amount of CO reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of haemoglobin. This results in breathlessness, headache, cardiovascular disorder, brain damage, etc.

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option A:

Chloroform (CHCl₃) is an organic compound that can be toxic if inhaled. It causes eye irritation, cancer, liver, and kidney damage.

Option B:

Carbon disulphide (CS₂) is a volatile liquid that damages the nervous system. It also causes heart and kidney diseases.

Option D:

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is released by respiration, burning of fossil fuels, and volcanic eruptions. It is a major greenhouse gas that is responsible for global warming.

Final answer: Blood analysis of a patient reveals a high quantity of carboxyhaemoglobin. The patient has been inhaling polluted air containing an unusually high content of carbon monoxide.