Citation

Okumura T, Hisaoka T, Yamada A, Naito T, Isonuma H, Okumura S, Miura K, Sakurada M, Maekawa H, Ishimatsu S, Takasu N, Suzuki K. Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 2005; 207(2 Suppl): 471-476.

Affiliation

Department of Acute and Disaster Medicine, Emergency Department, Jutendo University Hospital, Bunkyo-city, Tokyo 113-8431, Japan. xj2t-okmr@asahi-net.or.jp

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.taap.2005.02.032

PMID

15979676

Abstract

The sarin gas attack in the Tokyo subway system is reviewed from a clinical toxicology perspective. Based on the lessons learned from this attack, the following areas should be addressed on a global scale. First, an adequate supply of protective equipment is required, including level B protective equipment with a pressure demand breathing apparatus. In addition, a system should be established that enables a possible cause to be determined based on symptoms, physical findings, general laboratory tests, and a simple qualitative analysis for poisonous substances. If an antidote is needed, the system should enable it to be administered to the victims as quickly as possible. Preparation for a large-scale chemical attack by terrorists requires the prior establishment of a detailed decontamination plan that utilizes not only mass decontamination facilities but also public facilities in the area. A system should be established for summarizing, evaluating, and disseminating information on poisonous substances. Finally, a large-scale scientific investigation of the Tokyo sarin attack should be conducted to examine its long-term and subclinical effects and the effects of exposure to asymptomatic low levels of sarin.

Language: en