[Acute organophosphate intoxication after using a anti-lice insecticide shampoo]

Arch Pediatr. 2002 Sep;9(9):913-6. doi: 10.1016/s0929-693x(02)00022-2.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Case report: 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.

Conclusion: 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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / chemically induced
  • Acute Disease
  • Animals
  • Antidotes / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cholinesterase Reactivators / therapeutic use
  • Confusion / chemically induced
  • Decontamination / methods
  • Diarrhea / chemically induced
  • Emergency Treatment / methods
  • Female
  • Hair Preparations / adverse effects*
  • Hair Preparations / supply & distribution
  • Humans
  • Insecticides / administration & dosage
  • Insecticides / poisoning*
  • Insecticides / supply & distribution
  • Lice Infestations / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Organophosphorus Compounds*
  • Pediculus
  • Portugal
  • Pralidoxime Compounds / therapeutic use
  • Scalp Dermatoses / drug therapy*
  • Time Factors
  • Vomiting / chemically induced

Substances

  • Antidotes
  • Cholinesterase Reactivators
  • Hair Preparations
  • Insecticides
  • Organophosphorus Compounds
  • Pralidoxime Compounds
  • pralidoxime