A prospective study on lung parenchymal changes in ingestional poisoning

Abstract

Introduction:The ingestion of poison constitutes a critical medical emergency necessitating immediate attention in the emergency department. Respiratory symptoms associated with ingested poisons may manifest through aspiration, cardiopulmonary effects, or direct lung toxicity resulting from alveolar epithelium injury. In the emergency setting, chest imaging, including chest radiographs and CT scans, is commonly employed to assess such symptoms. This study aims to observe and document radiological changes in lung parenchyma among cases of ingestional poisoning admitted to GGH Kakinada. Material and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted, encompassing cases of ingestional poisoning admitted to GGH Kakinada from January 1st, 2023, to June 1st, 2023. Results: Our findings revealed a predominance of males (71.2%), with the most common age group being 31-40 years (36.6%). Paraquat emerged as the most frequently consumed poison (39.39%). Radiological changes were most prevalent in paraquat poisoning cases (66.67%), and the mortality rate was 39.39%. Conclusion: Paraquat poisoning demonstrates substantial and delayed lung involvement, likely linked to aspiration. All cases resulted in mortality. Early chest X-ray assessment is vital in the emergency department for prompt detection and intervention, anticipating respiratory symptoms in patients with radiological changes.

Keywords

• ingestional poisoning
• lung parenchyma
• organophosphate
• paraquat