Phosphide Poisoning in Animals

Phosphide Poisoning in Animals

Important Concepts

• Phosphides (Zinc, Magnesium, Aluminum): Used as rodenticides, these compounds release toxic phosphine gas in the stomach.

Clinical Changes

• Symptoms: Vomiting (may be hemorrhagic), lethargy, ataxia, tremors, seizures, pulmonary edema, shock, renal and hepatic damage, cardiovascular collapse.

Pathological Changes

• Mechanism: Phosphine gas causes oxidative damage, disrupts aerobic respiration, and inactivates acetylcholinesterase.

Diagnosis

• Clinical Signs: Observation of symptoms, history of exposure.

• Tests: CBC, serum biochemistry, urinalysis, blood gas analysis, thoracic radiographs.

Treatment

• Decontamination: Emesis in a ventilated area, gastric lavage, activated charcoal.

• Supportive Care: IV fluids, antacids (magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide), gastroprotectants, N-acetylcysteine, anticonvulsants, methocarbamol.

For more details, visit the Merck Veterinary Manual on Phosphide Poisoning.