Multiorgan-dysfunction Secondary to Glyphosate Poisoning: A Case Report

Abstract

Globally, glyphosate is the most widely used non selective broad-spectrum herbicide. The uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation and polyoxymethylene amine-mediated cardiotoxicity are thought to contribute to glyphosate toxicity. Hereby, the authors presents a case report of 54-year-old male with an alleged history of consuming glyphosate, who experienced complications 48-72 hours after ingestion. These complications included acute kidney injury, corrosive injury to the oesophageal mucosa, cardiotoxicity, and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). These are rare but severe manifestations of oral glyphosate-Polyoxyethyleneamine (POEA) poisoning. The patient survived due to aggressive supportive therapy, which included renal replacement therapy, non invasive ventilation, and heart failure management. Since, there is no antidote for glyphosate poisoning, exposure to glyphosate can be fatal, necessitating vigorous supportive therapy. Published data indicate that the use of additional therapies, such as intravenous (i.v.) fat emulsion (20% intralipid, 100 mL) and adsorption haemoperfusion cartridge filters, has had limited success.

Keywords

• acute renal failure
• herbicide
• organophosphates
• polyoxyethyleneamine