Role of Methylprednisolone and Cyclophosphamide in Paraquat Poisoning Treatment

Abstract

Background:  Paraquat is a herbicide with a chemical composition of 1,1′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride. The primary use of paraquat is for weed control. Accidental or deliberate self-harm can lead to inhalation and ingestion of the compound. It is hydrophilic and does not penetrate intact skin. However, there is mention about dermal exposure. Paraquat is rapidly inactivated in soil. The clinical signs and symptoms can range from the development of oral ulceration, abdominal pain, reduced urine output, renal failure, jaundice, and hypoxemic respiratory failure leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Objectives: 1. Role of methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide in paraquat poisoning treatment.2.Study the Role of methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide in paraquat poisoning treatment.3.Study the clinical profile of paraquat poisoning cases in a tertiary care center.4.Study the outcome among paraquat poisoning cases in a tertiary care center.

Methods:  Study Design: A prospective observational study. Study Setting: Medicine Department of Government medical college Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Study population: All cases with paraquat poisoning admitted in medicine department of Government medical college Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Study Duration: 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2025.Sample size: 16

Results:  Majority cases found in 17-25 years age group 8 (50%) cases followed by 5 cases (31.25%) found in 26-35 years age group and 3 (18.75%) cases observed in 36 and above years age group. Most of cases were males 14 (87%) and 02 females (12.5%). Majority of cases from rural area 14 (87.5%) and 2 cases from urban area (12.5%). Most of the cases were farmers 9 (56.255) followed by 2 cases were housewife and 1 student. majority of cases presented with vomiting 13 (81.25%) followed by Increased serum creatinine 11 (68.75%), lethargy 10 (62.5%), leukocytosis 7 (43.75%), respiratory failure 7 (43.75%), acute hepatitis 7 cases (43.75%) and shock 7 cases (43.75%). mortality was 43.75%, 7 cases death during treatment and 7 cases survive (43.75%) and 2 cases DAMA

Conclusions:   Majority cases found in 17-25 years age group, Most of cases were males, Majority of cases from rural area, Most of the cases were farmers, majority of cases presented with vomiting and mortality was 43.75%.