Accidental Organophosphorus Poisoning In Benghazi Children (Review Of 21 Cases)

Original article

English

E.M.M. Abduelrahman, S.M. Elbargathy and A. Sheba

Department of Paediatrics, Garyounis University, Benghazi – Libya

Garyounis Medical Journal Vol.19. 1998-2002: 107-113

Abstract

All cases of organophosphorus poisoning admitted to A1-Fateh Children Hospital, Benghazi from January 1st to December 31St 1997 were reviewed to determine the size of the problem of in children and to evaluate the methods employed in its diagnosis and management. The total number was 21 cases, male: female ratio was 1:1 and the mean age was 2 years, with an average age from 5 months to 13 years. Poisoning was accidental in all cases, either by insecticide powder or rat killer. All cases presented with the characteristic symptoms and signs. Atropinization was done for cases with an average dose of 10 mg. Most patients were discharged within 3 days from presentation. No atropine toxicity was recorded. Pralidoxime was not needed for any of our cases.
All patient made complete, uneventful recovery and suffered no long-term sequale on follow-up. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis, and prompt specific treatment cannot be overemphasized.

Keywords: Accidental Organophosphorus Poisoning In Benghazi Children

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