Prognostic role of oral atropine in the subacute phase of organophosphate poisoning

Abstract

Organophosphates (OPs) are widely used as insecticides. Accidental OP poisoning is reported world over. These compounds inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase within the peripheral and central nervous system by phosphorylation of its esteratic site. The resultant accumulation of acetylcholine at the cholinergic receptor sites, leads to signs of cholinergic toxicity. Accidental OP ingestion has rarely been reported in young toddlers. We report a case of acute OP poisoning (dichlorvos) in an 18-month-old boy with special reference to use of oral atropine treatment in subacute phase.