Acute organophosphorus insecticide poisoning in Sri Lanka

Records of 92 cases of acute organophosphorus (OP) insecticide poisoning were analysed. Of the patients 91% were under 30 years of age and 86% were males. The common agents were Dimethoate, Methamidophos, Malathion, Monocrotophos and Fenthion. Poisoning was due to ingestion with suicidal intent in the majority. In addition to the acute cholinergic features, the other important manifestations were delayed onset respiratory paralysis and delayed polyneuropathy. The overall mortality was 18%.