Citation

Shadnia S, Soltaninejad K. J. Emerg. Med. 2011; 40(2): 179-181.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jemermed.2009.05.028

PMID

19625157

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Acute aluminum phosphide (AlP) poisoning is one of the most common cause of acute pesticide poisoning in Iran. Spontaneous ignition is a rare finding in AlP poisoning.
OBJECTIVE: To present two cases of fatal AlP poisoning that involved spontaneous ignition.
CASE REPORT: Two patients presented with suicidal ingestion of AlP tablets. In the Emergency Department (ED), they received gastric lavage. During insertion of a nasogastric tube, both patients experienced spontaneous ignition, and flames were witnessed by the medical personnel. Unfortunately, both patients died due to systemic effects of AlP poisoning.
CONCLUSION: Patients who present with acute aluminum phosphide poisoning may experience spontaneous ignition in the ED.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Aluminum Compounds; Emergency Service, Hospital; Female; Fires; Humans; Intubation, Gastrointestinal; Male; Middle Aged; Phosphines; Suicide; Young Adult