Morbidity and Mortality Indicators in Acute Organophosphate Poisoning in Zagazig University Hospital, Egypt: Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction: Organ phosphorus (OP) toxicity has been studied extensively because of its world wide use. Toxicity of organophosphates is the result of inhibition of acetyl cholinesterase resulting in cholinergic signs. Aim of the Work: To evaluate initial indicators that can indicate prognosis of patients in OP poisoning. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study conducted in Zagazig university hospital over a year. OP poisoning was clinically diagnosed with history of OP compound exposure and confirmed by low pseudo cholinesterase levels. Results: In the present study, 76 patients were enrolled. Major cases were male. High mortality rates were in the youth and in prolonged ventilated patients. The mortality rate was proportionally related to lag time after exposure and plasma pseudo cholinesterase levels. Electrolyte disturbance did not affect clinical outcome. Conclusion: From this study, it could be concluded that mortality is directly proportionate to the lag time, amount of OP consumed, clinical severity, pseudo cholinesterase levels and duration of ventilator support. This study helps in rapid diagnosis, and rapid early and effective treatment, which may result in decreasing the morbidity and mortality rates. Recommendation: It is recommended to increase awareness regarding the rapid diagnosis, and rapid effective treatment of organ phosphorous.