T60.3 + (X48.99/X68.99/Y18.99)
* Notifiable condition.
DESCRIPTION
Paraquat poisoning causes multi-organ failure and is often fatal. Following oral ingestion, patients present with oral, oesophageal and gastric erosions with severe gastroenteritis. Multi-organ failure develops, particularly renal and respiratory failure, within 1–3 days. Patients surviving the initial phase usually develop pulmonary fibrosis.
GENERAL MEASURES
Supportive and symptomatic management to maintain patent airway, adequate respiration and circulation. Mechanical ventilation maybe needed in some cases. The mainstay of treatment is palliative care.
Note: High inspiratory fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) may worsen pulmonary toxicity. Supplemental oxygen should only be provided if the patient is confirmed hypoxic.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
- Activated charcoal.