Abstract
Paraquat structurally resembles N-methyl-4-phenyltetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and its metabolite 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPP+). MPTP and MPP+ are neurotoxic chemicals, which induce in exposed humans and in animal-models a Parkinson's disease. A high correlation between the incidence of Parkinson's disease and herbicide use in Canada led to the assumption that paraquat could give rise to parkinsonism. We have therefore carried out a follow-up study with patients having had dermal contact with paraquat or having swallowed paraquat accidentally or in a suicidal attempt. 7 patients took part in the study. Three of them had dermal contact. One had ingested paraquat by accident and three were survivors from suicidal paraquat intake. It was possible to exclude parkinsonism in all patients. One patient exhibited tardive dykinesia most likely due to a long term therapy with neuroleptic drugs.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
