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What is a common medicinal use of an organophosphorus compound?
What is a common medicinal use of an organophosphorus compound?
Which of the following is NOT a recommended step in the management of organophosphorus toxicity?
Which of the following is NOT a recommended step in the management of organophosphorus toxicity?
Which of the following is an example of an organophosphorus insecticide?
Which of the following is an example of an organophosphorus insecticide?
What is the first step in decontamination after an organophosphate exposure?
What is the first step in decontamination after an organophosphate exposure?
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What is the primary role of Atropine in the context of organophosphorus toxicity management?
What is the primary role of Atropine in the context of organophosphorus toxicity management?
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Study Notes
Organophosphorus Toxicity
- Organophosphorus compounds (OPs) are organic compounds containing a phosphate group.
- These compounds include insecticides (e.g., malathion, parathion) and nerve gases (e.g., soman, sarin, tabun).
- OPs are lipophilic, meaning they easily penetrate the skin and cell membranes.
Uses of Organophosphorus Compounds
- Insecticides
- Chemical warfare agents
- Echothiophate, a medication for glaucoma
Mechanism of Action
- OPs inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE).
- AChE is an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine (ACh).
- Inhibition of AChE leads to a buildup of ACh at nerve synapses.
- This excessive amount of ACh stimulates receptors excessively.
Manifestations of Toxicity
-
Muscarinic effects: These effects target the muscarinic receptors. These include:
- Diarrhea
- Urination
- Miosis (pinpoint pupils)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Emesis (vomiting)
- Lacrimation (tearing)
- Salivation
- Lethargy
-
Nicotinic effects: These effects target the nicotinic receptors. These include:
- Muscle twitching
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
SLUDGE
- Acronym for a set of symptoms characteristic of organophosphate poisoning.
- Salivation
- Lacrimation
- Urination
- Defecation
Management of Organophosphate Toxicity
- Decontamination: Remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected areas with soap and water. Irrigate eyes exposed to organophosphates with isotonic saline solution.
- General care: Ensure airway, breathing, and circulation are adequate.
- Antidote: Administer atropine, a muscarinic antagonist, to counteract muscarinic effects.
- Cholinesterase reactivation: Administer 2-PAM (pralidoxime) to reactivate the inhibited AChE enzyme, but this is only effective if given within 12 hours if possible.
- Supportive care: Treat other symptoms as needed.
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Description
This quiz covers the key aspects of organophosphorus compounds, including their uses, mechanism of action, and the manifestations of toxicity. Learn about the impact of these compounds on health and their role in chemical warfare and pest control.
