Exposure to endosulfan in farmers: Two case studies

Background Endosulfan is not a restricted use organochlorine insecticide an d is currently under re-registration review. In 1993, one confirmed case an d one possible case of endosulfan poisoning in agricultural workers occurre d in two southeastern states. Methods Two cases of suspected endosulfan poisoning were investigated utili zing record reviews, blood samples, a site visit, and clothing analysis. Results Case 1 was fatal; Case 2 resulted in permanent neurological impairm ent. Additionally, Case I mixed and applied two less toxic pesticides, acep hate and maleic hydrazide to tobacco plants. Both farm owners had ample opp ortunity for endosulfan exposure while mixing concentrated endosulfan with water and applying the solution to tobacco with boom sprayers pulled by tra ctors, Conclusions Estimates of the absorbed dose of endosulfan were nor available because methods to determine actual personal exposure that would be found in fat or tissue samples were not used Health and safety issues associated with endosulfan require a closer examination. A cooperative multi-disciplin ary approach to providing timely accurate education is needed to prevent pe sticide poisonings. Am. J. Ind. Med. 39:643-649, 2001. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.