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Accidental veterinary antibiotic injection into a farm worker

L A Crown1, R B Smith

  • 1Department of Family Medicine, University of Tennessee, Memphis, USA.

Tennessee Medicine : Journal of the Tennessee Medical Association
|September 4, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Accidental self-injection of tilmicosin, a bovine antibiotic, caused temporary pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and neuromuscular issues in a farm worker. Symptoms resolved, but persistent fatigue remained, highlighting antibiotic risks.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Human Toxicology
  • Occupational Health

Background:

  • Tilmicosin is a macrolide antibiotic primarily used in veterinary medicine for cattle and swine.
  • Accidental human exposure can occur during drug preparation or administration, posing potential health risks.

Observation:

  • A 29-year-old male farm worker accidentally injected tilmicosin into his finger.
  • The patient presented with acute symptoms affecting multiple organ systems.

Findings:

  • The individual experienced transient pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and neuromuscular adverse effects following tilmicosin exposure.
  • A persistent symptom of subjective asthenia (weakness or lack of energy) was noted post-exposure.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of safety protocols when handling veterinary antibiotics to prevent accidental human exposure.
  • Understanding the toxicological profile of tilmicosin in humans is crucial for appropriate medical management of accidental exposures.
  • Occupational health strategies should address the risks associated with handling potent animal pharmaceuticals in agricultural settings.

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