ACUTE FORMIC ACID POISONING :ANALYSIS OF 60 CASES FROM NORTH KERALA.

Dr. Sabna PP; Dr. Balakrishnan Valliyot; Dr. sudha Balakrishnan

Volume : V, Issue : V, May - 2016

ACUTE FORMIC ACID POISONING :ANALYSIS OF 60 CASES FROM NORTH KERALA.

Dr. Sabna Pp, Dr. Balakrishnan Valliyot, Dr. Sudha Balakrishnan

Abstract :

Formic acid is one of the potent corrosive acids which lead to high morbidity and mortality in the victims.Acute formic acid poisoning has emerged as the second most common chemical agent used for deliberate self harm in the rubber growing areas of North Kerala. Though very common poison in this area, the studies and reports are very few in literature. To the best of our knowledge this study reports the largest number of patients with formic acid poisoning used for deliberate self harm. Aims: To study the demographic and clinical profile of formic acid poisoning victims admitted in the toxicology unit of Academy of medical sciences, Pariyaram.Kerala India. Material and methods: The study was a prospective observational study conducted among the patients who used formic acid for deliberate self–harm.60 patients admitted in the toxicology unit of department of medicine was studied in detail for the demographic data and clinical manifestations. Results: 35 patients out of 60 expired due to various complications. Renal failure, DIC and GIT manifestations were common cause of death . Conclusion: Formic acid poisoning has emerged as common chemical agent used for deliberate self–harm. This causes high mortality and morbidity among victims. Bleeding manifestations, DIC, hemolysis and renal failure were significant factors in predicting mortality. Statutory limitations on the availability of formic acid and social interventions are needed in the rubber growing areas of the state to curtail this increasing incidence of formic acid poison.