How does organophosphate poisoning cause respiratory failure?
Eleanor Gray
Updated on February 15, 2026
How does organophosphate poisoning cause respiratory failure?
OP exposure to the lung causes increased acetylcholine at the pulmonary muscarinic receptors causing pulmonary abnormalities. OP agents increase the work of breathing through an increase in pulmonary static and dynamic compliance and by causing obstruction of airways [9-11].
Can organophosphates cause pulmonary edema?
Organophosphate poisoning may also result in coma or death [6]. Death is attributed to hypoxia due to interference with the respiratory system by severe pulmonary edema and excessive respiratory tract secretion, coupled with paralysis of the respiratory muscles and failure of the respiratory center [6].
What are the clinical manifestations of organophosphate poisoning?
Purpose: The typical toxidrome in organophosphate (OP) poisoning comprises of the Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, Gastric cramps, Emesis (SLUDGE) symptoms.
What are the complications of organophosphate poisoning?
Complications include severe bronchorrhea, seizures, weakness, and neuropathy. Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death.
What is respiratory poison?
A wide variety of different compounds act as respiratory poisons, and inhibit the oxidation of metabolic fuels linked to the phosphorylation of ADP to ATP. Cyanide and carbon monoxide, well known poisons.
What is OPC poisoning?
Organophosphate poisoning is poisoning due to organophosphates (OPs). Organophosphates are used as insecticides, medications, and nerve agents. Symptoms include increased saliva and tear production, diarrhea, vomiting, small pupils, sweating, muscle tremors, and confusion.
Which part of the body is most affected by acute organophosphate poisoning?
When death occurs, it is most commonly due to respiratory failure due to paralysis of respiratory muscles and depression of central nervous system, which is responsible for respiration.
How do organophosphates affect the body?
Long-term exposure to organophosphates can cause confusion, anxiety, loss of memory, loss of appetite, disorientation, depression, and personality changes. Other symptoms such as weakness, headache, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting also may occur.
What is the pathophysiology of organophosphate poisoning?
Pathophysiology. Organophosphates and carbamates are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and skin. They inhibit plasma and red blood cell (RBC) cholinesterase, preventing breakdown of acetylcholine, which then accumulates in synapses.
What happens in organophosphate poisoning?
What is the toxicity of organophosphate?
What are metabolic poisons?
Metabolic Poisons are enzyme inhibitors that interfere with the biochemical pathways that are involved in energy production or utilization. Rotenone is a competitive inhibitor of electron transport that blocks respiration through NADH. It is used as a pesticide due to its harmful effect on insects.