Organophosphorus poisoning: study of evaluation of clinically relevant indicators

Abstract

Background: POP scale and serum cholinesterase estimation are purported to be meaningful indicators for mortality prediction in the cases of organophosphorus poisoning. The present study was undertaken to substantiate the correlation of POP scale score and serum cholinesterase levels in acute OP poisoning with mechanical ventilation requirement and mortality in our setting.Methods: Data of 150 eligible participants was collected, with POP scale and serum cholinesterase levels being assessed during initial presentation in each of them. Clinical course of the cases was monitored and documented.Results: The observed case fatality rate was 32.7%. POP scale scoring revealed 30 out of 75 patients to be from moderate group and 19 out of 22 patients to be from severe group. Forty nine out of 75 in moderate group & all patients in severe group required ventilator support. With respect to Serum Cholinesterase level; 20 out of 23 and 29 out of 77 patients died in the severe & moderate poisoning categories respectively. Forty eight out of 77 in moderate poisoning and all patients in severe poisoning required ventilator support.Conclusions: POP scale scoring and serum Cholinesterase level assessments are clinically relevant indicators in acute OP poisoning cases and are of great utility towards assessment of mechanical ventilation requirement and mortality prediction.