Abstract:
Background. The use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices is the main cause of e-cigarette or
vaping usage-associated lung damage (EVALI), an acute and possibly fatal pulmonary
disease. With changing of smoking methods EVALI has recently become a serious public
health concern, particularly among teenagers and young people.
Objective(s). To examine the clinical features, diagnostic difficulties, and treatment
approaches for EVALI, highlighting the significance of prompt identification and public
health measures.
Materials and methods. A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar,
CDC reports, and Elsevier databases. Keywords included “EVALI,” “vaping-related lung
injury,” “e-cigarette-associated pneumonia,” and “vitamin E acetate lung damage.” Articles
were selected based on clinical significance, epidemiologic value, and treatment insights.
Results. Analysis of the literature highlights that EVALI predominantly affects males under
35 years of age, presenting with symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, chest pain, fever, and
gastrointestinal complaints. Radiologically, bilateral ground-glass opacities are frequently
observed and considered a typical finding. Vitamin E acetate has emerged as a key causative
agent in most confirmed cases. Diagnostic challenges arise due to overlapping clinical and
imaging features with infectious pneumonias. Management typically includes systemic
corticosteroids, cessation of e-cigarette use, and supportive care based on the severity of the
illness.
Conclusion(s). Early recognition of EVALI is essential to prevent severe and potentially lifethreatening complications. Increased awareness among healthcare providers, combined
with targeted public health strategies and stricter regulation of vaping products, is vital to
combat this growing concern.
