| Abstrakt: |
Background: Zinc phosphide (Zn3P2) poisoning represents a severe and often fatal toxicological emergency, especially prevalent in agricultural regions where it is used as a rodenticide. This case series investigates the morbidity and mortality associated with early presentations of zinc phosphide poisoning in a tertiary care center. Despite advances in critical care, the mortality rates for zinc phosphide poisoning remain high, highlighting the need for improved early recognition and management strategies. Materials And Methods: This retrospective case series was conducted at the Emergency Department of Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences, Tamil Nadu, from January 2023 to June 2023. Patients presenting with confirmed zinc phosphide ingestion within six hours were included. Data collected included demographic details, clinical presentations, laboratory findings, treatment administered, complications, and outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: Seven cases were analyzed, with patients' ages ranging from 22 to 75 years. The time from ingestion to presentation varied from 15 minutes to six hours. Common symptoms included vomiting, sweating, and abdominal pain. Gastric lavage was performed in most cases, and treatments included N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and Vitamin K. Complications observed included coagulopathy, hepatic dysfunction, respiratory distress, and neurological impairment. The mortality rate was significant, with two patients succumbing within a day of ingestion. Conclusion: Zinc phosphide poisoning is associated with high morbidity and mortality, emphasizing the need for early detection and aggressive management. Despite supportive treatments, the high fatality rate underscores the need for better management protocols and preventive measures. Public health efforts should focus on reducing the use of toxic substances in agricultural settings and increasing community awareness about the dangers of zinc phosphide. Further research is needed to develop specific antidotes and improve supportive care strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
