Diagnostic and Therapeutic Problems of Parathion Poisonings

Because poisoning by parathion may simulate other more common diseases, its early diagnosis is not always easy. The ultimate outcome of such an intoxication is very largely dependent upon, first, the speed with which this diagnosis is made and treatment begun, and, second, the vigor with which the highly specific antidotal and resuscitative procedures are pressed. Both the early diagnosis and the successful handling of such cases require not only the judicious use of one's clinical skills but also the proper interpretation of the various laboratory measurements available. Some of the problems that can be expected in early diagnosis and in the subsequent management are described through the recounting of our own experiences with a young girl who ingested approximately 450 mg of 15% parathion powder.