Introduction <br />Drinking gasoline (petrol) is extremely dangerous and can cause severe damage to the body, particularly the liver, which plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances. Gasoline contains toxic chemicals such as benzene, toluene, and other hydrocarbons that can lead to acute and chronic liver damage. This article explores the harmful effects of gasoline ingestion on liver function and overall health. <br /><br />## How Gasoline Affects the Liver <br /><br />### 1. Chemical Toxicity <br />Gasoline contains hydrocarbons and additives that are highly toxic when ingested. The liver, responsible for filtering toxins, becomes overwhelmed, leading to: <br />- Hepatocyte (Liver Cell) Damage – Direct toxicity from hydrocarbons can kill liver cells, impairing function. <br />- Inflammation (Hepatitis) – The liver may become inflamed, leading to chemical hepatitis. <br />- Fatty Liver Disease – Toxins can disrupt fat metabolism, causing fat accumulation in liver cells. <br /><br />### 2. Acute Liver Injury <br />Even small amounts of gasoline can cause: <br />- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction). <br />- Elevated Liver Enzymes (AST, ALT) indicating cellular damage. <br />- Liver Necrosis (tissue death) in severe cases. <br /><br />### 3. Long-Term Liver Damage <br />Chronic exposure (intentional or accidental ingestion) can lead to: <br />- Liver Fibrosis & Cirrhosis – Scarring of liver tissue, reducing its ability to function. <br />- Liver Failure – In extreme cases, the liver may shut down completely. <br />- Increased Risk of Liver Cancer – Benzene in gasoline is a known carcinogen linked to cancer. <br /><br />## Other Health Risks of Gasoline Ingestion <br />Besides liver damage, gasoline consumption can cause: <br />- Lung Damage (if aspirated into the lungs, leading to chemical pneumonia). <br />- Kidney Failure (due to toxin buildup). <br />- Neurological Effects (dizziness, seizures, coma). <br />- Gastrointestinal Damage (severe stomach pain, vomiting blood). <br /><br />## Treatment and Prevention <br />- Immediate Medical Help – Gasoline ingestion is a medical emergency; induce vomiting only if instructed by a doctor. <br />- Activated Charcoal – May be given to limit absorption. <br />- Liver Function Tests – Required to assess damage. <br />- Avoidance & Education – Preventing access to gasoline is crucial, especially for children and individuals with substance abuse issues. <br /><br />## Conclusion <br />Drinking gasoline is life-threatening and causes severe liver damage, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and potential liver failure. Immediate medical intervention is necessary in cases of ingestion. Public awareness and proper storage of gasoline can help prevent accidental poisoning.<br /><br />د. سجاد علوان <br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq<br />