A Case of Aluminum Phosphide Poisoning.
- Author:
Hyun Min JUNG
1
;
Ji Hye KIM
;
Jin Hui PAIK
;
Jun Sig KIM
;
Jung Hun KIM
;
Seung Baik HAN
Author Information
1. Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea. LIFESAV@inha.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Aluminum phosphide;
Phosphine gas;
Complications
- MeSH:
Aluminum;
Aluminum Compounds;
Epithelium;
Humans;
Korea;
Lung;
Membranes;
Middle Aged;
Oxyhemoglobins;
Phosphines;
Respiration
- From:Journal of The Korean Society of Clinical Toxicology
2011;9(2):109-112
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Aluminum phosphide is commonly used as a rodenticidal agent in agricultural workplaces. However, reported cases of aluminum phosphide poisoning in Korea are rare. Upon contact with moisture in the air, aluminum phosphide releases highly toxic phosphine gas (PH3). PH3 is readily absorbed through lung epithelium and into the bloodstream. Phosphine may cause denaturing of oxyhemoglobin and enzymes important to respiration and metabolism, and also may effect cellular membranes. There are numerous complications associated with acute aluminum phosphide poisoning including gastrointestinal, respiratory, and cardiac toxicities. We report the case of a 46-year-old man who suffered from respiratory and cardiac toxicities after unintentional aluminum phosphide exposure. More intensive education for prevention is recommended.
