Epidemiological profile of paraquat poisoning in tertiary care center of eastern Nepal: A retrospective observational study

Both farmers and gardeners use paraquat, since it is efficient yet toxic, as it does not have a commonly used treatment if people are exposed. Common causes of death are acute respiratory distress syndrome, problems with the kidneys, and the failure of several major organs. In this study, the outcomes of patients who took part in the research were reviewed using data collected from admissions during a year period. All cases were caused by intentional self-harm, and out of these, 60% got acute kidney injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome, while 80% had a mix of metabolic and respiratory acidosis. Out of all the patients, half developed multi-organ dysfunction syndrome and a lethal outcome resulted for 50% within 24 hours. In a third of cases, the treatment was ended when family decided to discharge them against a doctor's advice, but only a fifth of patients were able to go to a high-dependency unit. Regardless of using hemodialysis, corticosteroids, and other support measures, a huge number of patients died. It is noted that paraquat poisoning is very dangerous and calls for better treatment options, where early hemoperfusion might have a positive impact on survival outcomes. Out of the herbicides registered worldwide, paraquat is the most hazardous and dangerous to people. Early use of hemodialysis, corticosteroids, and other medical support did not lead to a major drop in patients' death rates. Quick administration of hemoperfusion is a promising way to raise the survival chances of patients who are poisoned with paraquat.