Final answer:
Dilated pupils are not a common symptom of organophosphate poisoning; instead, pinpoint pupils are expected due to overstimulation of muscarinic receptors. Organophosphates inhibit acetylcholinesterase, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine and continuous neurotransmission.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has asked about which signs and symptoms are not common with patients poisoned by organophosphates. Among the options provided, dilated pupils (C) are not a typical symptom of organophosphate poisoning. Instead, organophosphates cause miosis or pinpoint pupils due to the overstimulation of the muscarinic receptors in the eye. Other common symptoms of organophosphate poisoning include excessive salivation, lacrimation (tearing of the eyes), urination, defecation, gastrointestinal distress, and emesis (vomiting). These are often remembered by the acronym SLUDGE, which stands for Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, Gastrointestinal distress, and Emesis.
Organophosphates act as nerve agents by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, resulting in a buildup of acetylcholine at nerve synapses and neuromuscular junctions, leading to continuous transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Treatment typically involves the use of anticholinergic drugs and oximes to counteract the effects of excessive acetylcholine and restore normal function.