Abstract

DOCAMPO, Patricia C; SPERA, Marina  and  VOITZUK, Ana P. Aluminium phosphide poisonings. Acta toxicol. argent. [online]. 2014, vol.22, n.3, pp.136-140. ISSN 1851-3743.

Aluminium phosphide (AlP) is a fumigant pesticide inexpensive; whose only permitted use is for stored grain pest control. On contact with moisty air, it releases phosphine gas (PH3), highly toxic, flammable and explosive, but that quickly dissipates. For all presentations, a 3 g formulation generates 1 g of phosphine gas. Exposure to 1000 ppm for 30 minutes is lethal. We present a series of cases of severe poisoning with AlP, in order to advise and inform on the mechanisms of toxicity and proper management of the poisoned patient.

Keywords : Aluminium phosphide; Phosphine gas; Aluminium phosphide poisoning; Mechanism of action.