Related Experiment Videos
Zinc phosphide ingestion: a case report and review
H D Rodenberg1, C C Chang, W A Watson
1Department of Emergency Health Services, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Truman Medical Center 64108.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Zinc phosphide rodenticide ingestion causes immediate phosphine gas toxicity, leading to symptoms like nausea and respiratory distress. Delayed effects target organs such as the liver, heart, and kidneys, with cardiotoxicity being a cause of delayed mortality.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Zinc phosphide is a common rodenticide.
- Ingestion can lead to severe poisoning due to phosphine gas release.
Observation:
- A case of suicide attempt via zinc phosphide ingestion is presented.
- Immediate symptoms included nausea, vomiting, dyspnea, and altered mental status.
- Pulmonary edema was observed, leading to rapid fatality in some cases.
Findings:
- Phosphine gas is the primary agent of immediate toxicity.
- Delayed toxicity affects the liver, heart, and kidneys.
- Direct cardiotoxicity is implicated in delayed deaths.
Implications:
- Prompt airway and circulatory support are crucial for managing zinc phosphide poisoning.
- Understanding delayed cardiotoxicity is vital for patient outcomes.
- This case highlights the severe risks associated with rodenticide misuse.