STUDY OF ECG MANIFESTATIONS IN PATIENTS OF CELPHOS POISONING

Abstract

Background : Alphos or Aluminum phosphide poisioning (Celphos), a solid fumigant pesticide is widely used as a grain preservative grain preservative. It is one of the dreaded poisons, although found all over the world but more common in developing countries like India. Several ECG changes ranging from ST segment elevation/depression, PR and QRS interval prolongation, complete heart block to
ectopics and fibrillation have been observed. Reversible myocardial injury has also been reported. Controversy exists regarding the various ECG changes seen in association with aluminium phosphide poisoning. Some authors have indicated in their studies that ECG
abnormalities were poor prognostic markers other have observed that presence of ECG abnormalities did not predict mortality. Persistence of ECG changes after symptomatic recovery is a dilemma for the attending physician. There is paucity of literature and no
specific guidelines are available for their management.