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Paraquat Toxicity and Treatment. Paraquat.
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Paraquat Paraquat: is very toxic to the skin and mucous membranes (inside of mouth, nose, eyes). Particles are considered too large for respiratory absorption, but once paraquat in the system (through broken skin or mucous membranes) it migrates to the lungs because of its oxygen seeking properties. If ingested it is very lethal, survival rates are generally poor.
Toxicology • Ingestion- life threatening effects on GI, kidney, liver and heart • LD50 3-5mg/kg or 10-15ml in 20% solution • Most lethal in lungs –but toxicity from inhalation rare • Mechanism – generation of free radicals with oxidative damage to lung tissue • Pulmonary fibrosis w/in 7-10 day causes death
Source: Richards, Kerry Penn State University Extension Service
LD50 Lethal Dose = Amount of chemical it takes to kill 50% of an experimental population
Source: Richards, Kerry Penn State University Extension Service
Source: Richards, Kerry Penn State University Extension Service
Adverse effects of Exposure • GI: mucous membrane swelling, edema, ulcerations • Renal –proximal renal tubule damage –reversible • Cardiac – focal necrosis myocardium • Cerebral – edema and brain damage • Smoking paraquat contaminated marijuana: pyrolyzed to non toxic dipyridyl
Toxicology (Skin) • Local skin damage contact dermatitis • Prolonged contact blisters, abrasion, ulcerations, finger nail changes • Slow absorption via intact skin • Abraded or eroded skin absorption efficient
Treatment of Contact Dermatitis from Paraquat • Upon contact, flush the skin with copious amounts of water • Mild skin reactions are usually self limiting as long as there is no more contact • More severe reaction should be treated by a dermatologist
Factors Leading to Illness Event • What the product used for its intended purpose? • Is it registered? • Is it registered for use on wheat & alfalfa? • Is it restricted? • What the product used correctly? • What factors could have lead the worker not to take action to mitigate the effects?