Acute Abamectin poisoning presenting with bilateral complete ptosis: A rare presentation of an uncommon pesticide toxicity

Abstract

Ingestion of pesticides remains the most common means of suicide in rural Sri Lanka. Widespread agricultural use of highly hazardous pesticides, poor home storage, and unrestricted over-the-counter sales make these pesticides easily accessible for acts of self-poisoning (1). We present the case history of a man who developed confusion, agitation and bilateral complete ptosis following self-ingestion of abamectin. Despite having evidence of a significant toxic dose, he was haemodynamically stable throughout the hospital stay and made a full recovery with supportive treatment.

Keywords

• Abamectin poisoning
• avermectin
• complete ptosis
• pesticide toxicity