Corrected QT Interval as a Predictor of Outcomes in Acute Organophosphate Poisoning Cases

Abstract

Introduction: Acute organophosphate (OP) poisoning is a global health problem and responsible for many deaths worldwide every year. It acts by inhibition of acetylcholinesterase causing cholinergic crises that lead to muscarinic, nicotinic and central manifestations. One of the most serious complications of organophosphate exposure is cardiac toxicity including electrocardiogram changes.This study aimed to evaluate corrected QT interval as predictor of major outcome events which included mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, number of atropine and toxogonine ampoules and duration of hospital stay in acute organophosphate toxicity. Methods: The study recruited 98 patients suffering from acute OP poisoning, who were admitted to Tanta University Poison Control Unit. QTc interval length and the different outcomes of the patients were recorded. Results: Fifty five patients (56.1 %) showed a prolonged QTc interval. Significant statistical association was recorded between QTc interval and delay time, manner & route of poisoning, severity of oranophosphrous toxicity and pseudocholinesterase level. Also, significant statistical association was recorded between QTc interval and need for mechanical ventilation, mortality, number of atropine & toxogonine ampoules and duration of hospital stay. Conclusion: Finally, it was concluded that QTc interval could be a good predictor for outcomes of acute organophosphrous poisoning.