Organothiophosphate Induced Acute and Reversible Parkinsonism: Case Report and Literature Review

Organophosphate compound poisoning is one of the most common causes for admission to the Medical Intensive Care Unit. Parkinsonism is a primary neurotoxic manifestation of organophosphate intoxication. In this case report, we present the case of a 26 year old man who had the experience of organothiophosphate poisoning.

A 26 year old man was admitted with tremors in upper and lower limbs together with the rigidity of all 4 limbs as well as difficulty in swallowing and in daily activities like walking, rising from chair, and turning on bed. He had consumed organophosphorus compound quinalphos, 15 days before. The basal ganglia changes were documented radiologically by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Gradual recovery was observed by treatment with dopaminergic agents and central anticholinergics over few weeks. Only 0.5% of organophosphate poisoning patients develop neurotoxic manifestations in the form of extrapyramidal syndromes such as Parkinsonism.

The occurrence of Parkinsonism as a complication of organophosphate poisoning raises safety concerns, especially in developing countries. Yet, this study is the first case report on Organothiophospahate induced Parkinsonism.

Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of extrapyramidal manifestations following organophosphate poisoning and the patients should be asked for regular follow-ups as the symptoms may appear even 1 month after the poisoning.