Endosulfan poisoning: An overview

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Endosulfan is a widely used organochlorine insecticide in agriculture.
• Despite restrictions, its use persists, particularly in developing nations, due to agricultural benefits.
• Endosulfan poses life-threatening toxic effects on humans and the environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pharmacokinetics, toxicity mechanisms, clinical presentations, and management of endosulfan poisoning.
• To describe histopathological findings and toxicological analysis of endosulfan exposure.
• To discuss the environmental toxicity and propose regulatory measures for endosulfan.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of endosulfan's pharmacokinetic and toxicological data.
• Analysis of reported clinical cases and management strategies.
• Examination of histopathological and environmental toxicity studies.

Main Results:

• Endosulfan toxicity affects multiple organs and systems, presenting diverse clinical signs.
• Ingestion of endosulfan is often fatal without prompt, aggressive supportive care; no antidote exists.
• Environmental persistence and widespread human exposure are significant concerns.

Conclusions:

• Strict regulation and a global ban on endosulfan are necessary to mitigate morbidity and mortality.
• Monitoring biological samples, like breast milk, can track endosulfan elimination in populations.
• Continued use of endosulfan poses substantial risks, necessitating urgent global action.