Question

Though you are an attentive parent, you lost track of your inquisitive toddler for a few minutes, just long enough for him to wander into the garage and open a package of insecticide that you use to control insects in your garden. You have no idea if any of the poison has been ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through his skin. You take the package away from your child and read under the "caution" section that it is an anticholinesterase. Given that this poison was made for insects, not humans, should you be worried? Explain your answer. What would happen to the child if he has indeed been affected? Explain which type of synapses could be affected. Propose an antidote (it's OK if you don't remember a specific compound, just describe what type of effect may reverse the effects of the insecticide).

Answer 1

Yes, you should be worried if your child is exposed to an anticholinesterase insecticide because it can inhibit acetylcholinesterase, leading to the buildup of acetylcholine and resulting in symptoms of nerve agent poisoning. Atropine and oximes serve as potential antidotes, but immediate medical attention is required.

Step-by-step explanation:

Should you be worried if your toddler ingests an anticholinesterase insecticide? Yes, because despite being targeted for insects, such compounds can be harmful to humans, particularly to children due to their smaller body size and developing physiology. In humans, anticholinesterases inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine at nerve synapses and neuromuscular junctions. This can result in overstimulation of nerves, uncontrolled muscle contractions, and symptoms similar to those of nerve agent poisoning.

Symptoms of poisoning can range from mild to severe, including short-term illness, brain damage, or even death, depending on the level of exposure. If your child has been exposed to an anticholinesterase insecticide, it could affect both the central and peripheral nervous systems, impacting cholinergic synapses. These synapses use acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter.

As an antidote, an anticholinergic such as atropine may be used to block the excessive effects of acetylcholine. In more severe cases, an oxime may be used alongside to help regenerate acetylcholinesterase and allow for the breakdown of acetylcholine. Treatment should always be carried out by medical professionals, and immediate action is crucial. In the event of suspected poisoning, it is essential to seek emergency medical attention immediately.