ALUMINUM PHOSPHIDE POISONING - A REVIEW

Aluminum phosphide poisoning is common in the rural belt of Northern I ndia. The release of cytotoxic phosphine gas primarily affects the hea rt, lungs, gastrointestinal tract and kidneys, although all organs can be involved. The cellular site of action of phosphine requires furthe r definition. Diagnosis is made by clinical suspicion, silver nitrate test and biochemical examination of the gastric aspirate and viscera. Treatment consists of early gastric lavage, vasopressors and supportiv e care. Specific therapy with intravenous magnesium sulphate is recomm ended.