petroleum distillate poisoning /pətrō′lē·əm/ , a toxic condition caused by the ingestion or inhalation of a petroleum distillate, such as fuel oil, lubricating oil, glue used in making model airplanes or the like, and various solvents. Nausea, vomiting, chest pain, dizziness, and severe depression of the central nervous system characterize the condition. Severe or fatal pneumonitis may occur if the substance is aspirated. Therefore induced emesis is contraindicated. See also kerosene poisoning.
