Endosulfan poisoning--a clinical profile

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Clinical Medicine
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Accidental food contamination with endosulfan in a rural setting led to poisoning in 44 individuals.
• Understanding the clinical and biochemical profile of endosulfan poisoning is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the clinical presentation of endosulfan poisoning.
• To determine biochemical markers indicative of organ dysfunction in endosulfan poisoning.
• To facilitate early identification of the causative agent and timely intervention.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 44 individuals with suspected endosulfan poisoning.
• Clinical examination and detailed history taking regarding food consumption.
• Routine biochemical tests including CBC, urea, creatinine, electrolytes, and LFTs were performed on 14 patients.
• Follow-up laboratory tests were conducted on 7 patients with initial abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Vital signs were stable; no jaundice observed.
• Central nervous system (CNS) manifestations included altered sensorium; pupils and reflexes were normal.
• Routine biochemical parameters (CBC, urea, creatinine, electrolytes) were normal.
• Liver function tests (SGPT, SGOT) were abnormal but normalized within six weeks.
• One fatality occurred due to status epilepticus and asphyxia.

Conclusions:

• Endosulfan poisoning is primarily characterized by CNS symptoms.
• Abnormalities in liver function tests can occur alongside CNS manifestations.
• Clinical suspicion of endosulfan poisoning can be supported by CNS signs, with or without evidence of other organ dysfunction.