Killer secretions: Organophosphorus poisoning: Practice eessentials and protocols

Organophosphorus pesticide self-poisoning is an important clinical problem in rural regions of the developing world and kills an estimated 200,000 people every year. Unintentional poisoning kills far fewer people but is a problem in places where highly toxic organophosphorus pesticides are available. Medical management is difficult, with case fatality generally more than 15%. However, consensus suggests that early resuscitation with atropine, oxygen, respiratory support, and fluids is needed to improve oxygen delivery to tissues. The role of oximes is not completely clear.