Which of the following toxidromes is associated with the consumption of pesticides containing organophosphates?
Organophosphate Pesticides and Toxidromes
Organophosphate pesticides work by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE).
Explanation:
- Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) normally breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) in the synaptic cleft.
- Organophosphates block AChE, preventing the breakdown of ACh.
- This leads to an accumulation of ACh in both the central and peripheral nervous systems.
- Excess ACh overstimulates cholinergic receptors (muscarinic and nicotinic).
Cholinergic Toxidrome Explained
The overstimulation of cholinergic receptors results in the characteristic signs and symptoms of the Cholinergic toxidrome. These often include the mnemonic SLUDGEM or SLUDGE-BBB:
- Salivation
- Lacrimation (tearing)
- Urination
- Defecation
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, cramps)
- Emesis (vomiting)
- Bronchorrhea (excess mucus in airways)
- Bronchospasm (airway constriction)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
Therefore, the consumption of pesticides containing organophosphates is directly associated with the Cholinergic toxidrome due to the mechanism of acetylcholinesterase inhibition and subsequent acetylcholine accumulation.
Important Questions from Acute Poisoning
Which of the following is the primary antidote used in children with organophosphate poisoning?
- Which one of the following drugs is the antidote for benzodiazepine poisoning?
A 3-year old child develops severe respiratory distress after inhalation of fumes arising from burning plastic. The child is started on supportive ventilation. Which one of the following antidotes needs to be given?
- All of the following features are present in Organophosphorus poisoning EXCEPT:
- Small sized pupils are seen in poisoning with all EXCEPT:
