Organophosphate and carbamate pesticide poisoning: the usefulness of a computerized clinical information system

Organophosphate (OP) and carbamate poisoning are still a worldwide health problem causing numerous fatalities in humans. Physicians who have no clinical toxicological experience with these compounds may have difficulties in promptly identifying the etiologic agent and managing the acute phase of the poisoning. We describe the potential use of a computerized medical information system that includes clinical data on 236 cases of OP and carbamate poisoning, and may improve the management of such poisoning. The methods of constructing the system, the first results of using the system, and the medical institutions that can benefit from such systems are discussed.