Abstract

PUGA TORRES, Mario Santiago et al. Intermediate syndrome due to organophosphate poisoning as a cause of delay in the withdrawal mechanical ventilation. Rev Cub Med Mil [online]. 2004, vol.33, n.3, pp. 0-0. ISSN 1561-3046.

The case of a 56-year-old patient that in order to commit suicide took an unknown amount of organophosphate insecticide known as Fenthion was presented. Shortly after, the patient had a typical cholinergic crisis that was treated with 2 mg of endovenous atropine every 5 min, ventilatory support and general measures. Serum cholinesterase was deeply inhibited since the patient was admitted. In spite of the apparent favorable clinical evolution, the patient could not be disconnected from ventilation., and that's why the diagnosis of intermediate syndrome due to phosphate poisoning was made. The non use of cholinesterase regenerators together with the delay to seek medical assistance could influence on the production of the syndrome. It was concluded that the intemediate syndrome due to phosphate poisoning is a serious and rare condition that complicates the evolution of these patients.

Keywords : Toxicology; Intermediate syndrome due to organophosphate poisoning.