Phosphorus
|
-
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