Epidemiological, Clinical and Laboratory Features in Patients Poisoned with Aluminum Phosphide

Background and Aluminum phosphide (AlP) is commonly used in Iran (especially in north) to keep stored rice and cereal grains safe from pests. There are several reports on intentional or accidental poisoning with AlP tablets also referred to as rice tablets. The goal of this research was to study the epidemiological, clinical and laboratory features in patients poisoned with AIP tablets.
In this cross-sectional study, information was extracted from patients’ records in Qaemshahr Razi Haspital and Sari Imam Khomeini Hospital, 2013-2014. Data including demographic characteristics, number of tablets, methods of intake, time and season of abuse, the time interval between tablet ingestion and hospital admission, vital signs, and laboratory data were recorded in a check list.
Fifty two cases (mean age: 23.4±9.2 years) were investigated including 38 females (73.08%) and 14 males (26.92%). The overall number of poisoned patients was higher in autumn (28.8%) and in evenings (51.9%). Death occurred in 16 cases (5 males and 11 females) and 36 patients survived of whom four (2 males and 2 females) developed complications.
In this study, the number of women poisoned with ALP tablet was dramatically higher compared to that of males. Autumn and evenings were found with highest rates of poisoning.