J Korean Soc Clin Toxicol.  2013 Jun;11(1):31-35.

A Case of Central Nervous System (CNS) Toxicity in Acute Organophosphate Intoxication

• Lee JS
• Paik JH
• Yun SH
• Kim JH
• Han SB
• Kim JS
• Jung HM

Abstract

Acute organophosphate intoxication is important because of its high morbidity and mortality. The mortality is still high despite the use of atropine as specific antidotal therapy and oximes for reactivation of acetylcholinesterase. Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase by organophosphate can cause acute parasympathetic system dysfunction, muscle weakness, seizure, coma, and respiratory failure. Acute alteration in conscious state or a coma, which may occur following organophosphate intoxication, is an indication of severe intoxication and poorer prognosis. This acute decline in conscious state often reverses when the cholinergic crisis settles; however, it may be prolonged in some patients. We report on a case of a 60-year-old male who showed prolonged decline in conscious state due to of Central Nervous System (CNS) toxicity after a suicide attempt with organophosphate.

Keyword

Organophosphate poisoning; Central nervous system; Brain injury

MeSH Terms

Acetylcholinesterase
Atropine
Brain Injuries
Central Nervous System
Coma
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Muscle Weakness
Organophosphate Poisoning
Oximes
Prognosis
Respiratory Insufficiency
Seizures
Suicide
Acetylcholinesterase
Atropine
Oximes