Abstract
Poisoning by insecticides is a public health problem, particularly in developing countries. Insecticide poisoning may occur due to ingestion, inhalation or skin contact and is commonly associated with psychiatric illnesses. However, intramuscular injection of these chemicals is rare in the literature. In this report, we represent you a case of 35-year-old female who presented to our Emergency Department due to parenteral insecticide injection after an argument with her husband. A tender swelling was observed on the upper region of left upper extremity, underneath the shoulder. The patient did not develop any signs and symptoms of organophosphate poisoning and, after follow-up, the patient was discharged with total recovery. Even in the absence of systemic effects of OP, clinicians must be aware of possible complications of intramuscular injection of OPs such as cellulitis and abscess. We aimed to raise the awareness to this rare condition.
Highlights
Suicide is defined as the conscious act of self induced annihilation and is among the three leading causes of death among those middle aged people in several countries which is complex with psychological, social, biological, cultural and environmental factors involved [1]
Household insecticides are classified as chlorinated hydrocarbons, acetyl cholinesterase inhibitors and botanical agents
After an interview with her relatives, it was understood that the chemical used for suicide was dichlorvos, an organophosphorus (OP) compound widely used to control household pests
Summary
Suicide is defined as the conscious act of self induced annihilation and is among the three leading causes of death among those middle aged people in several countries which is complex with psychological, social, biological, cultural and environmental factors involved [1]. We represent you a middle-aged female patient committed suicide by parenteral insecticide injection. It was understood that the patient has injected a household insecticide (by taking the aerosole into the injector) for suicidal attempt after an argument with her husband 12 hours ago. After an interview with her relatives, it was understood that the chemical used for suicide was dichlorvos, an organophosphorus (OP) compound widely used to control household pests. On admission, her vital signs were as follows; blood pressure: 130/80 mmHg (90/60 mm/Hg to 120/80 mm/Hg), pulse: 80/minute (60 - 100/min), respiratory rate: 20/minute (12 - 20/min), temperature: 36.5 ̊C (36.5 ̊C - 37.5 ̊C).
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