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Fatal intoxication with hydrocarbons in deltamethrin preparation
Jan Magdalan1, Marcin Zawadzki, Anna Merwid-Lad
1Toxicological Unit, T. Marciniak Hospital, Wroclaw, Poland. naladgam@op.pl
Human & Experimental Toxicology
|November 19, 2009
Summary
Fatal poisoning from the insecticide decis was linked to its hydrocarbon base, not the pyrethroid deltamethrin. This highlights the significant toxicity of hydrocarbon solvents in pesticide formulations.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Pyrethroid insecticides like deltamethrin are widely used in agriculture and homes.
- These compounds are known for high efficacy and generally low human toxicity due to rapid metabolism.
Observation:
- A fatal case of oral intoxication with 'decis', an insecticide containing deltamethrin in a hydrocarbon base, was analyzed.
- Clinical presentation included profound central nervous system (CNS) depression with apnea and cardiac arrest (asystolia).
Findings:
- Detection of aromatic hydrocarbons in blood, lung tissue, and urine confirmed significant absorption.
- The fatal outcome was attributed to the toxic effects of the hydrocarbon solvent (solvent naphtha), not deltamethrin.
- Hydrocarbon cardiotoxicity and narcotic effects on the CNS were the primary mechanisms of toxicity.
Implications:
- Intoxication from pyrethroid-containing insecticides must consider the dual toxicity of both the active ingredient and the hydrocarbon solvent.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of potential hydrocarbon toxicity when treating patients with insecticide ingestions.
- This case underscores the importance of understanding the complete toxicological profile of pesticide formulations.
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