Title: A Study on Cardiac Arrhythmia in Patients with Aluminium Phosphide Poisoning in North Bihar

Authors: Dr S.C. Jha, Dr Abhinandya Mukhopadhyay, Dr B.K. Singh

 DOI:  https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i6.202

Abstract

Background: Cardiac failure is a major lethal consequence of aluminum phosphide (AlP) poisoning. This study was designed to know the frequency of cardiac arrhythmias in patients with AlP poisoning.

Methods: In this prospective observational study, patients of AlP poisoning admitted at emergency department of Darbhanga Medical college, Bihar from May 2016 to April 2017 were included. On admission, twelve-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) was performed for all patients. All patients underwent continuous cardiac monitoring for whole hospital stay using a cardiac monitor. In patients with suspected arrhythmia on the cardiac monitor, another ECG was obtained immediately.

Results: During the study period, 50 patients with AlP poisoning were treated. Mean age of the patients was 34+/-4.6years ranging from 16 to 64 years. Cardiac arrhythmia was noted in 82%.most frequent arrhythmia was sinus tachycardia (60% of patients) followed by sinus bradycardia (18%)and others. Mortality was 84%. Comparison of death rate between patients with and without cardiac arrhythmia showed a significant difference P < 0.001).

Conclusion: AlP poisoning causes a very high mortality with circulatory collapse as the major cause of death. Early detection of cardiac disorders and proper management of arrhythmias may reduce mortalities.

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Corresponding Author

Abhinandya Mukhopadhyay

Post Graduate Student

Department of General Medicine, DMCH