pralidoxime and Lice-Infestations

Two children were admitted for poisoning by organophosphate pesticides applied as hair rinses against lice. These chemical agents inhibit the acetylcholinesterase enzyme at various sites. The resultant accumulation of the transmitter acetylcholine causes abnormal signs and symptoms. The diagnosis is based on a reduction in the blood cholinesterase activity. The specific treatment comprises the administration of atropine and pralidoxime.. Accidental poisoning by organophosphate insecticides may occur, due to the misuse of such substances as shampoo against lice. An accurate information for users is necessary.

Topics: Abdominal Pain; Acute Disease; Animals; Antidotes; Child; Child, Preschool; Cholinesterase Reactivators; Confusion; Decontamination; Diarrhea; Emergency Treatment; Female; Hair Preparations; Humans; Insecticides; Lice Infestations; Male; Organophosphorus Compounds; Pediculus; Portugal; Pralidoxime Compounds; Scalp Dermatoses; Time Factors; Vomiting

After cutaneous application of the organophosphate insecticide Diazinon for pubic lice, our patient had symptoms of cholinergic excess, lost consciousness, and had a seizure. Because of the high index of clinical suspicion for potentially lethal organophosphate poisoning, the patient received empiric therapy with pralidoxime and atropine and completely recovered.

Topics: Atropine; Coma; Diazinon; Humans; Insecticides; Lice Infestations; Male; Middle Aged; Pralidoxime Compounds; Seizures; Self Medication; Skin Absorption