Which type of hypoxia can be caused by inhaling cyanide?

Histotoxic hypoxia occurs when the tissues are unable to use oxygen effectively, even when there is an adequate supply of oxygen in the blood. Inhalation of cyanide leads to this type of hypoxia because cyanide inhibits the cellular processes involved in oxygen utilization. Specifically, it interferes with the electron transport chain in the mitochondria, which is essential for cellular respiration. As a result, even though there may be sufficient oxygen available in the bloodstream, the body's cells are unable to utilize it properly, leading to a state of histotoxic hypoxia.

Understanding this mechanism highlights why histotoxic hypoxia is specifically associated with cyanide poisoning, distinguishing it from other types of hypoxia that arise from different underlying causes, such as reduced oxygen availability or blood flow.