Phosphorus

PHOSPHOPRUS

  • Yellow phosphorus is used as a rodenticide. It is an oil-soluble, waxy solid with garlic odour.
  • It is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and damaged epithelium.
  • It is hazardous to all domestic animals and is locally corrosive and hepatotoxic when absorbed.
  • It is excreted in urine and expired air.
  • Violent vomiting and diarrhoea are noticed.
  • The breath of the poisoned animal has characteristic garlic odour.
  • Phosphorus is locally corrosive and when absorbed causes hepatotoxicity.
  • Death is due to hepatic and renal failure.
  • Lesions include severe gastroenteritis; fatty liver; multiple hemorrhages; and black, tarry blood that fails to clot.
  • Body tissues and fluids may be phosphorescent, and the gastric contents have a garlic odor.
  • Lavage with potassium permanganate or emesis with copper sulphate followed by activated charcoal are found to be useful.
  • Any fat in the diet must be avoided for 3-4 days or longer because fats favor additional absorption of phosphorus.
  • Mineral oil orally has been recommended because it dissolves phosphorus and prevents absorption.
Last modified: Wednesday, 4 August 2010, 7:55 AM