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Mass ethion poisoning with high mortality
Aruna Dewan1, Ashwin B Patel, Ramavati R Pal
1Poison Information Centre, National Institute of Occupational Health, Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad, India. dewanaruna@yahoo.com
Clinical Toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|September 14, 2007
Summary
A mass organophosphate poisoning incident involving ethion occurred at a social ceremony, resulting in significant mortality. Delayed treatment in developing countries exacerbates pesticide poisoning outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- A social ceremony at a remote farm led to organophosphate poisoning in fifteen individuals.
- Symptoms included gastrointestinal distress, excessive secretions, and respiratory compromise.
Observation:
- Victims experienced severe clinical toxicity, with high mortality rates across multiple healthcare facilities.
- Red blood cell cholinesterase levels correlated with clinical severity and patient outcomes.
- The identified pesticide was ethion.
Findings:
- The incident resulted in a mortality rate of 40% (6 out of 15 victims).
- Delayed access to advanced medical care significantly contributed to the high death toll.
- Complications such as lung infection and cerebral anoxia were observed in survivors.
Implications:
- Pesticide poisoning poses a significant public health threat in developing nations due to limited treatment facilities.
- This case highlights the urgent need for improved emergency response and accessible healthcare for pesticide-related emergencies.
- Clinical toxicologists, health authorities, and policymakers must address the challenges of pesticide poisoning in third-world countries.
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