Kerosolenum

[One of the lighter products (probably the lightest) obtained by distillation from the crude oil obtained from Albatite from Nova Scotia, Kerosolene being the trade name given by the "Downer Kerosene Oil Company." Nearly or quite identical with "Gasolene," the lightest oil from Petroleum. - Allen.] Solution in Rectified Spirit.

Clinical

Anæsthesia / Convulsions / Ecstasy / Laughter

Characteristics

The effects of Kerosol. have been observed on workmen, and also experiments have been made with it for the purpose of testing its anæsthetic properties. It causes a pleasurable kind of intoxication, but too much muscular rigidity, asphyxia, and intermittent pulse to render it a safe anæsthetic. Laughter was noticed in two cases, and this should prove an indication in some kinds of delirium and insanity. The symptoms are > in open air.

Relations

Compare: Petrol., Paraff., Benzin.

1. Mind

On breathing the vapour one seems to float away into a wavy maze with a sense of complete loneliness; there seems but one object in the universe, oneself; on recovery, the first object seen seems the only other object. Laughed (after tooth extraction) and only felt he had had a pleasant dream. Lost himself, but was inclined to laugh and would not keep still.

2. Head

Peculiar lightness of head. Slight headache.

3. Eyes

Eyes a little unnaturally open and staring.

6. Face

Momentary dusky redness of face at each convulsion (as in epilepsy).

18. Chest

During the convulsions breathing somewhat checked by rigid contraction of chest muscles.

19. Heart

Pulse: accelerated; intermittent; volume diminished during insensibility.

21. Limbs

Weakness of the limbs.

24. Generalities

Moderate convulsions. More muscular rigor than usual in favourable anæsthesia. Partially or wholly insensible, but rapidly recovers when brought into open air. Insensibility complete, though eyes not closed.

27. Fever

Some sweating.