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Asrie AB, Atnafie SA, Getahun KA, Birru EM, Mekonnen GB, Alemayehu GA, Endehabtu BF, Badi MB, Adinew GM. Poisoning cases and their management in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia: Hospital-based prospective study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303438. [PMID: 38820326 PMCID: PMC11142576 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poisoning is a significant public health problem globally. Ethiopia is a low-income country undergoing technological and social change that may increase access to drugs and chemicals, potentially increasing the incidence of poisoning. This study describes the epidemiology of hospital admissions due to poisoning in a region of Ethiopia. METHODS An institution based prospective observational study was employed, as a study design, in selected hospitals of the region from January to December 2018. RESULTS Of 442 poisoning cases, 78 (17.6%) died. Almost all poisoning cases were intentional self-poisonings. The most frequent poisonings were organophosphate compounds, 145 (32.8%), and metal phosphides (majorly aluminum phosphide), 115 (26.0%). The ingested poison was most frequently accessed from the patients' homes, 243 (55.0%), followed by purchases from local shops, 159 (36%). The median duration of admission was 24 hours. Of all the cases, 23 (5.2%) were admitted to intensive care units (ICU) requiring mechanical ventilation. Most of the cases admitted to the ICU were aluminum phosphide-poisoned patients. The majority of deaths (43 of 78) were due to metal phosphides. From the multivariate logistic regression analysis, altered level of consciousness on hospital arrival, metal phosphide poisoning, and no laboratory result as a part of the diagnosis process or investigation of the extent of toxicity were found to be significantly associated with the likelihood of poor treatment outcome. CONCLUSION The majority of the poisoning cases were females. The most common reasons for the intent of self-poisoning were dispute-related, mainly family disharmonies, followed by psychiatric conditions. The poisoning agents were mostly obtained from households. Organophosphate compounds and metal phosphides were the first and the second most frequently encountered poisoning agents, respectively, and it was noted that the later ones were responsible for most of the fatal cases. Of the pharmacologic interventions, atropine was the only agent regarded as an antidote. The most commonly employed agent for supportive treatment was cimetidine followed by maintenance fluids, while gastric lavage was the only GI decontamination method used among others. The fatality rate of poisoning in this study was found to be much higher than in other similar studies. Impaired consciousness upon hospital arrival, metal phosphide poisoning, and no involvement of laboratory investigation were found to significantly associate with the likelihood of death. Generally, the results dictate the need for the design and implementation of strategies to create awareness, prevent, and manage poisoning incidences in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assefa Belay Asrie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Seyfe Asrade Atnafie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Kefyalew Ayalew Getahun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Eshetie Melese Birru
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gashaw Binega Mekonnen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Geta Asrade Alemayehu
- Department of Health Service Management and Health Economics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Fikadie Endehabtu
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Marta Berta Badi
- Department of Women’s and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getinet Mequanint Adinew
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Alageel MK, Alwatban SM, Aldusari R, Aldeeb M, Alsomali S. The Effect of the COVID-19 Lockdown on the Frequency of Acute Poisoning Presentation to Adult and Pediatric Emergency Departments. Cureus 2023; 15:e33581. [PMID: 36636518 PMCID: PMC9830523 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.33581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus type 2 that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) was detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. A worldwide emergency response has been initiated because of the fast rise in the number of cases and fatalities during the early stages of the pandemic when vaccinations and efficient medical care were unavailable. Misinformation spread quickly in the early phases of the pandemic, leading to the inappropriate use of medications, chemicals, and traditional remedies for their claimed preventive or therapeutic purposes. Thus, our aim is to identify the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown on the patterns of intoxicated patients presenting to King Abdulaziz Medical City's adult and pediatric emergency departments. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted in the adult emergency department at King Abdulaziz Medical City and the pediatric emergency department at King Abdullah Specialized Children's Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All patients presented with poisoning as a chief complaint between March 23 to June 21 in 2019 (pre-lockdown), 2020 (the lockdown), and 2021 (post-lockdown) were included. Cases of registered poisoning complaints were reviewed and assessed with respect to patient demographics, the causative agent/substance responsible for the poisoning, management of poisoning, and particular outcomes on the approved data collection form by the research team. The data were entered and analyzed by using SPSS v26 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). The descriptive statistics are presented as frequency and percentage for the categorical data variables and mean and standard deviation for the numerical data. The data were further analyzed by using cross-tabulation (chi-square test), for the data that are both the predictor and the outcome was categorical. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant for all statistical tests. Results Out of 318 patients identified, 164 were adults and 154 were pediatric patients. The mean age of adult and pediatric patients was 33.3±15.5 years and 4±3.6 years, respectively. The majority of patients (115; 70.1%) were males in the adult group and females (90; 58.4%) in the pediatric. The majority of self-harm cases were accidental among both adults and pediatrics, 109 (66.5%) and 144 (93.5%), respectively. The disposition from the emergency department was discharged for 113 (68.7%) adult patients and 134 (87.0%) pediatric patients. The number of cases presented to ER with poisoning cases during the lockdown decreased. This was further tested inferentially, but no significant association was seen among study variables, i.e., p > 0.05. Conclusion The lockdown and pandemic had a significant impact on the rate and patterns of ED visits. The establishment and operation of Drug and Poison Information Centers (DPIC) across the Kingdom, in addition to increasing awareness through campaigns addressing drug and substance safety, is recommended.
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Abhilash KPP, Chandran J, Murugan S, Rabbi N AS, Selvan J, Jindal A, Gunasekaran K. Changing trends in the profile of rodenticide poisoning. Med J Armed Forces India 2022; 78:S139-S144. [PMID: 36147429 PMCID: PMC9485748 DOI: 10.1016/j.mjafi.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Deliberate self-poisoning (DSP) is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, with rodenticides being common compounds used by many victims. However, comprehensive data regarding the spectrum and outcome of rodenticide poisoning is scant. Method This retrospective study was conducted in the Emergency Department (ED) of a large tertiary care hospital in South India between January 2017 and December 2018. All patients with deliberate consumption of rodenticides were included in the analysis. Results During the study period, 1802 patients presented with DSP, among which 145 (8%) consumed rodenticide compounds. The mean (SD) age was 27.9 (10.7) years. Young adults (16-30 years) comprised 73% (106/145) of the study population. The majority (87%) were triaged as priority 2, while 10% were triaged as priority 1. Common rodenticide compounds consumed were yellow phosphorous (57%: 82/145), coumarins (12%: 17/145), zinc phosphide (19%: 27/145), and aluminum phosphide (1%: 1/145). A significant proportion of patients (18.6%) were under the influence of alcohol. Among the 73 males, 25 (34.2%) gave a history of co-consumption of alcohol. There was a history of previous DSP attempts in 6%. The majority (68%) of the patients were discharged alive from the hospital, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 9%. Age >30 years (adjusted OR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.00-5.05; p value: 0.04) was an independent predictor of poor outcome. Conclusion Rodenticide compound consumption for DSP is prevalent in young adults and is associated with significant mortality, especially with yellow phosphorous poisoning. The current trend in our country of the increasing use of highly fatal phosphorous compounds over the innocuous coumarin derivatives is a cause of grave concern.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jolly Chandran
- Associate Physician (Paediatrics), PICU, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Sanjay Murugan
- Paramedic (Emergency Medicine), Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | | | - Jagadesha Selvan
- Junior Clinical Assistant (Emergency Medicine), Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Anmol Jindal
- Junior Clinical Assistant (Emergency Medicine), Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Karthik Gunasekaran
- Assistant Professor (General Medicine), Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
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Prabhakar Abhilash K, Murugan S, S. Rabbi NA, Pradeeptha S, Kumar S, Selvaraj B, Gunasekaran K. Deliberate self-poisoning and harm: A meticulous quest of methods in vogue. J Family Med Prim Care 2022; 11:233-239. [PMID: 35309643 PMCID: PMC8930158 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1184_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Deliberate self-poisoning and harm (DSPH) is an unabating problem with a wide variation in the methods used across the world. Hence, this study was conducted to understand the current spectrum of methods used for DSPH by patients in our geographic locality and catchment area with special emphasis on newer compounds and drugs used. Methods: This retrospective study included patients presenting with DSPH to the emergency department (ED) between January 2017 and December 2018. Results: This study included 1802 patients, with a mean age of 32 ± 12.7 years. Of the patients, 85% were in the young to middle age group (16–45 years). Agrochemicals (n = 604, 33.5%), drugs (n = 498, 27.6%), plant toxins (n = 150, 8.3%) and rodenticides (n = 145, 8%) were the predominantly used compounds. The major emergency resuscitation procedures required in the ED were intubation (n = 321, 18%), vasopressor support (n = 73, 4%) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (n = 27, 1.4%). A quarter (23.2%) was discharged stable from the ED, whereas a further 56.5% were discharged stable after hospital admission. The in-hospital mortality rate was 3% (n = 47). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed rodenticides (odds ratio (OR): 22.32; 95% confidence interval (CI): 8.05–61.88; P = 0.005) and plant poisons (OR: 23.92; 95% CI: 8.95–63.94; P = 0.005) to be the independent predictors of mortality. Conclusion: DSPH is prevalent in the highly productive young age group. Agrochemical ingestion and drug overdose are the most common methods used, whereas rodenticide and plant poisoning are associated with significant mortality.
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Case Fatality as an Indicator for the Human Toxicity of Pesticides-A Systematic Scoping Review on the Availability and Variability of Severity Indicators of Pesticide Poisoning. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168307. [PMID: 34444056 PMCID: PMC8394312 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate if case fatality and other indicators of the severity of human pesticide poisonings can be used to prioritize pesticides of public health concern. To study the heterogeneity of data across countries, cause of poisonings, and treatment facilities. Methods: We searched literature databases as well as the internet for studies on case-fatality and severity scores of pesticide poisoning. Studies published between 1990 and 2014 providing information on active ingredients in pesticides or chemical groups of active ingredients were included. The variability of case-fatality-ratios was analyzed by computing the coefficient of variation as the ratio of the standard deviation to the mean. Findings: A total of 149 papers were identified of which 67 could be included after assessment. Case-fatality-ratio (CFR) on 66 active ingredients and additionally on 13 groups of active ingredients were reported from 20 countries. The overall median CFR for group of pesticides was 9%, for single pesticides 8%. Of those 12 active ingredients with a CFR above 20% more than half are WHO-classified as “moderately hazardous” or “unlikely to present acute hazard”. Two of seven pesticides considered “unlikely to present hazard in normal use” showed a CFR above 20%. The cross-study variability of reported case fatality was rather low. Studies most often utilized the Glasgow Coma Score for grading the severity of poisoning. Conclusion: Although human pesticide poisoning is a serious public health problem, an unexpectedly small number of publications report on the clinical outcomes within our study period. However, CFRs of acute human pesticide poisoning are available for several groups of pesticides as well as for active ingredients showing moderate cross-study variability. Our results underline that CFR is an indicator of the human toxicity of pesticides and can be utilized to prioritize highly hazardous pesticides especially since there is limited correspondence between the animal-test-based hazard classification and the human CFR of the respective pesticide. The reporting of available poisoning data should be improved, human case-fatality data are a reasonable tool to be included systematically in the periodic statutory review of pesticides and their regulation.
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Karunarathne A, Bhalla A, Sethi A, Perera U, Eddleston M. Importance of pesticides for lethal poisoning in India during 1999 to 2018: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1441. [PMID: 34294076 PMCID: PMC8296580 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11156-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poisoning is a major problem in India. However, there is little systematic information on the key poisons responsible for most deaths by geographical area and over time. We aimed to review the literature to identify the poison classes causing the greatest number of deaths in India over the last 20 years. METHODS We performed a systematic literature review in Medline, Embase and Google Scholar (1999-2018), and Indian online medical journals, to find papers that reported deaths from all forms of poisoning in India, with last search 20 April 2020. We included epidemiological studies, observational studies, randomised trials, interventional studies, and case series published from 1999 to 2018 that showed the number of deaths and autopsy studies indicating the specific poisons or poison classes. Studies providing the case fatality for specific poisons or classes, which enabled calculation of the number of deaths, were also included. We excluded deaths due to animal bites and stings, ethanol or methanol poisoning, and gas inhalation as well as papers reporting a single death (case study of single patient). We grouped the papers into 5-year intervals and identified the two most common poison classes in each paper. We used descriptive statistics to summarise the findings over time based on the causative poison and the location of the study. RESULTS We identified 186 papers reporting 16,659 poisoning deaths between 1999 and 2018. The number of publications per 5-year interval showed no clear trend over the period (48, 38, 67, and 36 for consecutive periods). Half of the deaths (n = 8338, 50.0%) were reported during the first 5 years of the study (1999-2003), the number of deaths declining thereafter (to n = 1714 in 2014-2018). Deaths due to pesticide poisoning (94.5%) were dominant across the study period compared to other classes of poison [hair dye paraphenylenediamine poisoning (2.6%), medicine overdose (1.4%) or plant poisoning (1.0%)]. Among the pesticides, aluminium phosphide was the most important lethal poison during the first 10 years before declining markedly; organophosphorus insecticides were important throughout the period, becoming dominant in the last decade as aluminium phosphide cases declined. Unfortunately, few papers identified the specific organophosphorus insecticide responsible for deaths. CONCLUSION Use of the published literature to better understand the epidemiology of lethal poisoning in India has clear limitations, including secular variation in publishing practices and interest in poisoning. Unfortunately, there are no long-term detailed, combination hospital and community studies from India to provide this information. In their absence, our review indicates that pesticides are the most important poison in India, with organophosphorus insecticides replacing aluminium phosphide as the key lethal poison after government regulatory changes in 2001 reduced the latter's lethality. Plant and hair dye poisoning and medicines overdose caused few deaths. Aluminium phosphide deaths mostly occurred in northern Indian states, whereas deaths from organophosphorus insecticide poisoning occurred throughout India. Paraquat poisoning has become a clinical problem in the last 10 years. Lethal pesticide poisoning remains alarmingly common, emphasising the need for additional regulatory interventions to curtail the burden of pesticide poisoning deaths in India. More detailed reporting about the specific pesticide involved in lethal poisoning will be helpful to guide regulatory decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayanthi Karunarathne
- Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention, and Pharmacology, Toxicology & Therapeutics, University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ashish Bhalla
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nehru Hospital, Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Aastha Sethi
- Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention, and Pharmacology, Toxicology & Therapeutics, University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Uditha Perera
- Usher Institute for Population Health Sciences & Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Michael Eddleston
- Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention, and Pharmacology, Toxicology & Therapeutics, University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Arafa ESA, Buabeid MA, Hassan W, Murtaza G, Chohan TA, Ahmed H. Protective Effects of Cocos Nucifera Oil in Paraphenylene Diamine Toxicity. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2021; 22:423-432. [PMID: 32351177 DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666200430115323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) is a highly toxic compound used for hair-dyeing worldwide. PPD self-poisoning had significantly increased in recent times with increased mortality rates. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the toxic effects of PPD and the protective potential of its prospective antidote Virgin Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera). METHODS PPD was identified and validated by FT-IR and UV mass spectrometer. PPD toxicity was induced in-vivo by single intraperitoneal injection (40 mg/kg and 60 mg/kg). Single-injection of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) was administered in the presence of PPD at doses of 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg. Blood was analyzed for renal, hepatic and cardiac biomarkers. Relevant organs were collected, weighed and preserved for histopathological examination. Statistical analysis was carried out to note mortality rate, survival duration and serum biochemical parameter. Molecular docking studies were performed to assess attachment of PPD with histaminergic receptors. RESULTS PPD injection achieved 100% mortality rate with short survival span, and disturbed hepatic, renal, and cardiac serum markers with marked histopathological changes. VCO notably decreased mortality rate, raised treatment time window with marked adjustment in hepatic, renal, and cardiac markers. Docking studies proved that PPD attaches robustly with histaminergic receptors. CONCLUSION The study concludes that VCO possesses lifesaving protection against PPD toxicity and can be a suitable antidote.
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Affiliation(s)
- El-Shaimaa A Arafa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Manal A Buabeid
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Waseem Hassan
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Ghulam Murtaza
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Tahir A Chohan
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hammad Ahmed
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
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Alnasser S, Hussain SM, Alnughaymishi IM, Alnuqaydan AM. Pattern of food, drug and chemical poisoning in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia from January 2017 to December 2017. Toxicol Rep 2020; 7:1438-1442. [PMID: 33145179 PMCID: PMC7591347 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2020.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poisoning has become a widespread and dangerous phenomenon worldwide. The purpose of our study was to determine and analyze the pattern of poisoning cases induced with food, drugs, and chemicals reported to the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health in Qassim province in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study also evaluated the correlation of demographic variables such as age, type of toxicity and geographical distribution associated with poisoning in Qassim province. Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study was performed on 381 cases of poisoning. The data was collected from Jan 2017 to Dec 2017 and revealed that out of 381 cases, 120 have food poisoning (65 % females and 35 % males), 180 have drug poisoning (55.56 % females and 44.44 % males), whereas 81 cases have chemical poisoning (41.98 % female and 58.02 % male). Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS/PC statistical package. The study revealed that the most common agents involved in acute poisoning were drugs (47.25 %), especially analgesics such as Paracetamol (Acetaminophen), followed by antipsychotic drugs. Food poisoning was the second acute poisoning with (31.40 %). Finally, chemical poisoning involved in acute poisoning with 21.20 % of cases reported household products accomplished strongest bleach (chlorines)(Clorox®) and insecticides were the secondary source for chemical poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulaiman Alnasser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shalam M Hussain
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdullah M Alnuqaydan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia
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Kunhahamed MO, Thomas VK, Abraham SV, Palatty BU, Kallivalappil SC. Survival following intentional succinylcholine injection for self-harm. Turk J Emerg Med 2020; 20:193-195. [PMID: 33089028 PMCID: PMC7549520 DOI: 10.4103/2452-2473.297468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Succinylcholine is a short-acting depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent. We describe a case where the above drug was employed for self-harm by a health-care worker. The patient, a 28-year-old female, was brought to the emergency department (ED) in impending respiratory arrest and altered mental status. On arrival, she had hypoxia, bradycardia, and hypotension. Although the cause for rapid deterioration in this patient was unknown, the ED physician still went ahead by resuscitating the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation. During the course of resuscitation, information was received that an empty ampoule of succinylcholine was recovered from her bathroom. Further clinical examination and laboratory investigations led the treating physicians to suspect deliberate intravenous injection of succinylcholine. She was mechanically ventilated and monitored in the critical care unit. Targeted temperature management was initiated in the ED and was continued for 24 h. The patient was discharged from the hospital without any neurological deficits after 4 days. Patients with acute poisoning are one of the major encounters in ED, and this case highlights the possibility of anesthetic drug misuse in any health-care workers coming to the ED with sudden cardiac arrest, altered sensorium, or abnormal vitals. This is the first report describing the survival of a patient following intentional succinylcholine injection for self-harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenhas Oravil Kunhahamed
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Vimal Koshy Thomas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Siju Varghese Abraham
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Babu Urumese Palatty
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Shibu C Kallivalappil
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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Sharma R, Neelanjana, Rawat N, Panwar N. Mortality and morbidity associated with acute poisoning cases in north-east India: A retrospective study. J Family Med Prim Care 2019; 8:2068-2072. [PMID: 31334181 PMCID: PMC6618216 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_237_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Poisoning is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in India and also a major health problem worldwide. Majority of the studies shows that insecticides and pesticides compounds are the most widely used agents for poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sharma
- Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, AIIMS, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Neelanjana
- Clinical Nurse, Himalayan Hospital, Jollygrant, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nandita Rawat
- Nursing Officer, AIIMS, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nalini Panwar
- Clinical Nurse, Himalayan Hospital, Jollygrant, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
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Blanchard J, Feltes M, Kim JY, Pousson A, Douglass K. Experience of Indian emergency physicians in management of acute poisonings. TOXICOLOGY COMMUNICATIONS 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/24734306.2019.1635725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Janice Blanchard
- Department of Emergency Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michelle Feltes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jung Yeon Kim
- George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Amelia Pousson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Katherine Douglass
- Department of Emergency Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Mbarouk GS, Sawe HR, Mfinanga JA, Stein J, Levin S, Mwafongo V, Runyon MS, Reynolds TA, Olson KR. Patients with acute poisoning presenting to an urban emergency department of a tertiary hospital in Tanzania. BMC Res Notes 2017; 10:482. [PMID: 28915823 PMCID: PMC5602963 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2807-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poisoning is a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, affecting patients of all age groups. Poisoned patients often present to the emergency department (ED) and prompt evaluation and appropriate management are imperative to ensure optimal outcomes. Unfortunately, little is known about the specific presentations of poisoned patients in East Africa. We describe the clinical and epidemiological features of patients presenting to the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) ED with suspected toxicological syndromes. Methods This prospective study enrolled a consecutive sample of ED patients who presented with a suspected toxicological syndrome from March 2013 to June 2013. Trained investigators completed a structured case report form (CRF) for each eligible patient, documenting the suspected poison, demographic information, the clinical presentation, and the ED outcome and disposition. The study data were analyzed and summarized with descriptive statistics. Results Of 8827 patients, who presented to ED-MNH, 106 (1.2%) met inclusion criteria, and all were enrolled. Among those enrolled, the median age was 28 years (interquartile range [IQR] 16 years), and 81 (76.4%) were male. Overall 55 (52%) were single, and 28 (26.4%) had professional jobs. 60 (56.6%) patients were referred from district hospitals, 86.8% of which were in Dar es Salaam. Only 13 (12.3%) of patients presented to the ED within 2 h of the toxic exposure. The etiology of poisoning included alcohol in 42 (50%), a mixture of different medications in 12 (14.3%), and snakebite in 6 (11.3%). Most exposures were intentional (63 [59.4%]) and were via the oral route (88 [83%]). The most common abnormal physical findings were altered mental status (66 [62.3%]) and tachypnoea (68 [64.2%]). One patient died in the ED and 98 (92.5%) required hospital admission. Conclusions Most patients presenting to the ED with a toxicological syndrome were adult males with intentional exposures. The most common toxic exposure was alcohol (ethanol) intoxication and the most common abnormal findings were altered mental status and tachypnoea. More than three-quarter of patients presented after 2 h of exposure. Almost all patients were admitted to the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghaniya S Mbarouk
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hendry R Sawe
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 54235, Tanzania. .,Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Juma A Mfinanga
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 54235, Tanzania.,Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - John Stein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shankar Levin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Victor Mwafongo
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 54235, Tanzania.,Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Michael S Runyon
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 54235, Tanzania.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Teri A Reynolds
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 54235, Tanzania.,Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Emergency and Trauma Care Lead, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kent R Olson
- California Poison Control System, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Ssemugabo C, Halage AA, Neebye RM, Nabankema V, Kasule MM, Ssekimpi D, Jørs E. Prevalence, Circumstances, and Management of Acute Pesticide Poisoning in Hospitals in Kampala City, Uganda. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2017; 11:1178630217728924. [PMID: 28904524 PMCID: PMC5588792 DOI: 10.1177/1178630217728924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study was aimed at assessing prevalence, circumstance, and management of acute pesticide poisoning in hospitals in Kampala. It was a retrospective cross-sectional study that involved reviewing of 739 poisoning patient records from 5 hospitals in Kampala. Of the 739 patients, 212 were due to pesticide poisoning resulting in a prevalence of 28.8%. About 91.4% (191/210) of the cases were due to organophosphate poisoning, 63.3% (133/210) were intentional, and 98.1% (206/210) were exposed through ingestion. Diagnosis was majorly based on poisoning history 91.2% (187/205), and clinical features such as airways, breathing, and circulation examination 48.0% (95/198); nausea and vomiting 42.9% (91/212); muscle weakness 29.7% (63/212); excessive salivation 23.1% (49/212); and confusion 20.3% (43/212). More than half of the patients admitted were treated using atropine 52.3% (113/212). The prevalence of acute pesticide poisoning was high with most managed based on physical and clinical examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Ssemugabo
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdullah Ali Halage
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ruth Mubeezi Neebye
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Victoria Nabankema
- Pesticide Use, Health and Environment project, Uganda National Association of Community and Occupational Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Massy Moses Kasule
- Pesticide Use, Health and Environment project, Uganda National Association of Community and Occupational Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Deogratius Ssekimpi
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Pesticide Use, Health and Environment project, Uganda National Association of Community and Occupational Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Erik Jørs
- Pesticide Use, Health and Environment project, Uganda National Association of Community and Occupational Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Alzahrani SH, Ibrahim NK, Elnour MA, Alqahtani AH. Five-year epidemiological trends for chemical poisoning in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Ann Saudi Med 2017; 37:282-289. [PMID: 28761027 PMCID: PMC6150588 DOI: 10.5144/0256-4947.2017.282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poisoning is a significant global public health challenge in terms of morbidity and mortality. We conducted this study because of the lack of large population-based studies on chemical poisoning in Saudi Arabia. OBJECTIVE Describe epidemiological trends, associated factors, and outcomes of chemical poisoning cases reported to the Jeddah Health Affairs Directorate, Saudi Arabia. DESIGN Descriptive, retrospective medical record review. SETTING Population database for the Jeddah Governorate. METHODS For chemical poisoning cases reported from January 2011 to December 2015, data was collection using a standardized, validated data collection sheet. Data was collected on personal characteristics, type of chemical poisoning and outcome. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Descriptive epidemiological data and statistical comparisons. RESULTS For 994 chemical poisoning cases, an increasing trend was observed from 2011 to 2013 followed by some reduction during 2014 and 2015. The highest percentage of cases occurred during July followed by March for the cumulative total cases by month for all years. More than half of the cases involved males (55%), and children aged less than 5 years (56.6%). About three-fourths of the cases occurred accidentally and through ingestion. The most common poisonous agents were detergents (36.0%). Poisoning with addictive drugs occurred in 13 cases (1.3%). Only 1.1% of cases received a poisoning specific antidote, and the same percentage died because of poisoning. Gender, age, nationality, the route and the circumstances of the exposure were significantly associated with the type of poisoning (P < .001). CONCLUSION Most of chemical poisoning cases were accidental, occurred during summer, were caused by detergents, affected children < 5 years of age, and occurred via ingestion. Educational programs are needed to raise public awareness about poisoning, and to minimize the access of children to poisonous agents, especially detergents. Such measures could contribute toward a further reduction of the chemical poisoning burden. LIMITATIONS Some key statistics not reported. Information bias may have affected results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Hamdan Alzahrani
- Dr. Sami H. Alzahrani, Department of Family and Community Medicine,, King Abdulaziz University,, Abdullah Sulayman, 22254,, Jeddah 21441,, Saudi Arabia, T: +966126408403, , ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6786-7184
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Das Adhikari D, Das S, Winston A B, Vazhudhi K, Kumar A, Shanthi Fx M, Agarwal I. A retrospective study on non-drug related poisoning in the community among children from south India. Hosp Pract (1995) 2017; 45:39-45. [PMID: 28306345 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2017.1303326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This retrospective study was performed to determine the incidence, demographic distribution, types and outcomes across various non-drug related poisonings among children attending a tertiary care center in south India. METHODS All children from 0-16 years who presented to the Paediatric Emergency Department, Christian Medical College, Vellore with non-drug related poisoning from October 2004 to September 2013 were included. RESULTS Out of the total 997 cases of poisoning, 629 (63.1%) cases were contributed by chemicals and plants: mainly hydrocarbons (kerosene) 309 (49.1%); organophosphates 72 (11.5%); corrosive acids and alkalis 57 (9.1%); insecticides 51 (8.1%); and plant poisons 20 (3.2%). Males (62.79%) and children < 5 years (77.42%) were mostly affected. Although many children developed complications requiring intensive care unit admissions, the total mortality was only 9 (1.4%). The incidence of poisoning showed a decreasing trend over the last 4 years. CONCLUSION This study for the first time gives an elaborative insight on non-drug related pediatric poisoning from a tertiary care center in south India for almost a decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debasis Das Adhikari
- a Paediatric Emergency, Department of Paediatrics , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Saibal Das
- b Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Blessed Winston A
- b Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Kaysina Vazhudhi
- b Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Aniket Kumar
- b Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Margaret Shanthi Fx
- b Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Indira Agarwal
- c Child Health 2, Department of Paediatrics , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
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Winston A B, Das Adhikari D, Das S, Vazhudhi K, Kumar A, Shanthi Fx M, Agarwal I. Drug poisoning in the community among children: a nine years' experience from a tertiary care center in south India. Hosp Pract (1995) 2017; 45:21-27. [PMID: 27985284 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2017.1273734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was performed to determine the incidence, demographic distribution, types and outcomes across various drug poisonings among children from south India. METHODS This retrospective study included children less than 16 years who presented to the Pediatric Emergency Department with drug poisoning from the 1st of October 2004 to the 30th of September 2013. RESULTS Out of the total 997 poisoning cases, 366 (36.71%) were contributed by drugs; mainly antiepileptics, central nervous system depressants, psychotropics, analgesic-antipyretics and natural drugs. Males and children of < 5 years were mostly affected. Although many children developed complications and required intensive care unit admissions, the total mortality rate was less than 1%. The incidence of drug poisoning showed a decreasing trend over the last 4 years. CONCLUSION This study for the first time gives an elaborative insight into pediatric drug poisoning over a nine-year period from a Pediatric Emergency Department tertiary care center in south India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blessed Winston A
- a Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Debasis Das Adhikari
- b Paediatric Emergency, Department of Paediatrics , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Saibal Das
- a Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Kaysina Vazhudhi
- a Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Aniket Kumar
- a Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Margaret Shanthi Fx
- a Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Indira Agarwal
- c Child Health 2, Department of Paediatrics , Christian Medical College , Vellore , Tamil Nadu , India
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Mishra AK, Devakiruba NS, Jasmine S, Sathyendra S, Zachariah A, Iyadurai R. Clinical spectrum of yellow phosphorous poisoning in a tertiary care centre in South India: a case series. Trop Doct 2016; 47:245-249. [PMID: 27663491 DOI: 10.1177/0049475516668986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rodenticides such as yellow phosphorus are highly toxic compounds which are commonly used for pest control. Reports of yellow phosphorus poisoning from tropical nations is scanty. In this retrospective study, we report the clinical features, mortality and predictors of mortality among nine patients at a tertiary care centre in south India. Yellow phosphorus consumption was common among a younger age group of patients. The mean duration of presentation after consumption was five days. The most common clinical manifestations seen were abdominal pain and vomiting followed by a depressed sensorium. Features of acute liver failure including coagulopathy were seen in all patients. Despite all patients receiving supportive therapy, a poor outcome or death resulted in the majority. Early referral to a tertiary care centre, meticulous monitoring and supportive measures are key elements of patient management as there are no specific antidotes available at present. Increase in public and physician awareness to the toxin and implementation of preventive policies is of utmost importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar Mishra
- 1 Assistant Professor, Internal Medicine Unit III, Christian Medical College and Hospital Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nathaniel Samson Devakiruba
- 1 Assistant Professor, Internal Medicine Unit III, Christian Medical College and Hospital Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sudha Jasmine
- 2 Associate Professor, Internal Medicine Unit III, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sowmya Sathyendra
- 3 Professor, Internal Medicine Unit III, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anand Zachariah
- 4 Head of the Department and Professor, Internal Medicine Unit I, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramya Iyadurai
- 5 Associate Professor, Internal Medicine Unit V, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Banerjee I, Tripathi SK, Roy AS. Clinico-epidemiological profile of poisoned patients in emergency department: A two and half year's single hospital experience. Int J Crit Illn Inj Sci 2014; 4:14-7. [PMID: 24741492 PMCID: PMC3982364 DOI: 10.4103/2229-5151.128007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Poisoning is a common cause for attending emergency department of hospitals. AIMS To explore the epidemiological characteristics and clinical profile of patients presenting with poisoning in emergency department. SETTINGS AND DESIGN Prospective, cross-sectional, hospital-based study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Relevant epidemiological and clinical data from patients, presenting with history/clinical features of poisoning in emergency department of a tertiary care district hospital in India, were collected and analyzed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS DATA ANALYSIS WAS DONE BY USING DESCRIPTIVE AND INFERENTIAL STATISTICAL METHODS: Frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation (SD). A two-tailed P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS A total of 4,432 patients with history and/clinical features of poisoning were included in the study. The females clearly outnumbered male patients. Poisoning with suicidal intent was more frequent (81.08%) than accidental (18.92%) (P < 0.0001). Majority of the patients were housewives followed by farmers, businessmen, laborers, and students. The mean time interval between poison consumption and admission to hospital was 6.4 hours (Mean ± SD: 6.4 ± 2.29). Snakebite (31.90%) was the most common cause of poisoning followed by organophosphorus compounds (21.84%), rodenticide (16.49%), alcohol (13.80%), chemicals (9.04%), and drugs (2.3%). The mean GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale) score of the poisoned patients at presentation was 6.85 ± 1.62. Of all the patients included in the study, 3,712 patients (83.76%) survived and 720 patients (16.24%) expired. CONCLUSIONS The current piece of work suggests that most of the poisoning cases involved young age group particularly females. Snakebite and organophosphorus compounds contributed most of the poisoning cases which calls for urgent government initiatives for improvement in proper lighting of the district to prevent snakebite and controlled use of pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indranil Banerjee
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Santanu Kumar Tripathi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - A Sinha Roy
- Department of Medicine, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan, West Bengal, India
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