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Death and injury caused by methyl bromide, an insecticide fumigant
Abstract:
Methyl bromide (MeBr) is used as an insecticide fumigant. Four deaths and three recent hospitalizations have resulted from exposures to MeBr in Dade County, FL. Six cases occurred during burglaries of tented houses over a nine-month period. In four lethal exposures, the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and malaise preceded fulminant respiratory failure. Two of these also had seizures, delirium, and agitation. Serum or plasma bromide ion levels ranged from 40 to 583 mg/L. Pulmonary edema, hyaline membranes, and hemorrhagic alveolitis were present at autopsy along with varying degrees of cerebral edema. The nonlethal exposures resulted in symptoms of conjunctival irritation, headache, or nausea. Plasma bromide concentrations varied between 17.5 and 321 mg/L. Methyl bromide characteristics, use, morbidity, and mortality in Florida during the past 25 years are reviewed. Remedies for illegal entry are proposed.
Insights
Exposure to methyl bromide (MeBr), an insecticide fumigant, caused severe illness and fatalities in Florida. Cases highlight the dangers of illegal entry into fumigated structures, emphasizing the need for safety measures.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Methyl bromide (MeBr) is a widely used insecticide fumigant.
- Illegal entry into fumigated structures poses significant health risks.
- Previous incidents and characteristics of MeBr toxicity are documented.
Observation:
- Four deaths and three hospitalizations occurred in Dade County, FL, due to MeBr exposure.
- Cases primarily involved burglaries of tented houses over a nine-month period.
- Symptoms ranged from nausea and respiratory failure to seizures and delirium.
Findings:
- Lethal exposures showed high serum/plasma bromide ion levels (40-583 mg/L).
- Autopsies revealed pulmonary edema, hyaline membranes, hemorrhagic alveolitis, and cerebral edema.
- Non-lethal exposures presented with conjunctival irritation, headache, or nausea, with lower bromide levels (17.5-321 mg/L).
Implications:
- This study underscores the acute toxicity and potential lethality of methyl bromide.
- Findings emphasize the critical need for enhanced security and public awareness regarding fumigated properties.
- Recommendations are proposed to prevent illegal entry and mitigate methyl bromide poisoning risks.