Fatal Aluminum Phosphide Poisoning Following Improper Hotel Fumigation – A Case Report

Objective: To report a fatal case of unintentional inhalational aluminum phosphide (ALP) poisoning and to highlight the diagnostic challenges, the lack of a specific antidote and the necessity for stricter regulatory oversight.Material and Method: The case of a 38-year-old male, who was unintentionally exposed to ALP-containing pest control products at a hotel in Türkiye, was analyzed. The clinical progression, symptoms upon admission, and the medical management provided were reviewed.Results: The patient presented with nonspecific symptoms such as dyspnea, nausea, diaphoresis, hypotension, and tachycardia. Despite aggressive supportive care, the patient’s condition rapidly deteriorated into severe metabolic acidosis and cardiovascular collapse, resulting in a fatal outcome consistent with the known 70–100% mortality rate of ALP toxicity.Conclusion: Inhalational ALP poisoning is highly lethal and difficult to diagnose early due to nonspecific symptoms. The absence of a specific antidote underscores the importance of strict regulatory oversight of fumigation practices and increased public awareness to prevent future catastrophic incidents.