Ambiguous Phorate Granules for Sesame Seeds Linked to Accidental Organophosphate Fatal Poisoning

Abstract

Ingestion of organophosphate compound for suicidal attempt is a major health problem in developing countries. However, unintentional ingestion by an adult is rare. An 80-year-old lady and her 30-year-old granddaughter consumed phorate (organophosphate) granules thinking it to be the seeds of sesame. After grinding the granules and mixing with pickle, they consumed the preparation with rice. The granddaughter was brought dead at emergency department and the older lady after resuscitation shifted to intensive care unit. She was extubated on 17th day and discharged on 23rd day. Pesticide formulation resembling any edible items must be withdrawn from the market at the earliest. Stringent regulation on vendors, apparent formulation or packaging and education about the hazards of these compounds can prevent this type of unintentional poisoning. Keywords: Ambiguous, organophosphate, phorate, sesame seeds, unintentional poisoning.