Document V3G1yJq3w1y39vEanxn3LEXb4

September 17, 1930 Dr* Irvin L. Hamant, Norfolk, Conn* Dear Dr. Eamant: A case of illness from the ingestion of Ethyl Gasoline has been brought to my attention by Mr* Robbins B* Stoeckel, Commissioner of Motor Vehicles in the State of Connecticut. Mr. Stoeckel has given me permission to ask concerning the medical details of this case, and I am very much interested in knowing as much as I can discover concerning it* I am enclosing herewith a self-addressed stamped envelope, and I should appreciate very much the courtesy of a reply* I and my associates in this laboratory have been investigating the dangers associated with the use and distribution of Ethyl Gasoline for a number of years, cooperating in this work with the United States Public Health Service* Mr. Stoeckel reports that his young cousin, about twenty four years of age, swallowed some consider able quantity of gasoline while attempting to start a suction through his gas tank by means of a rubber hose. Mr. Stoeckel rather naturally concluded that since the gasoline contains poisonous materials, that the Injury was the result of such poisons. I am very much Inter ested in knowing whether in your opinion the boy* s symptoms and signs would give any justification for . this conclusion. It would appear to me unlikely that this was the case, but that makes me all the more inter ested In obtaining your opinion. Mr* Stoeckel naturally enough has failed to consider the fact that gasoline it self Is an exceedingly irritating substance, and would be expected to produce erosion of the mucous membrane, and a considerable amount of damage to the throat, esophagus, and the stomach, whereas the small quantity of lead contained in a reasonable quantity of gasoline suoh as might be swallowed, would be, generally speak ing, insignificant as a case of lead intoxication. Allow me to thank you in advance for such details as you find it possible to furnish me. Very truly yours, RAKjEJ KE 0021912