Paraquat peril: An insight into a fatal poisoning case

Paraquat (PQ) is a non-selective synthetic herbicide known as N, N'-dimethyl-4, 4'-bipyridinium dichloride. Toxic levels of PQ can be lethal, when ingested, as they can have potentially fatal effects on the heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. To date, no known counter-dote exists, and none of the available therapies are effective. We present the case of a 30-year-old male who, after inadvertently consuming 20 ml of 24% PQ, experienced GI symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and odynophagia, as well as liver and kidney damage. Symptoms and organ involvement subsided, when prompt and appropriate supportive care was provided.