Final answer:
Organophosphate poisoning causes neurologic deficits through cholinergic toxicity by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, which leads to an accumulation of acetylcholine. Symptoms are treated with anticholinergic medications like atropine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Organophosphate poisoning by pesticide exposure causes neurologic deficits through cholinergic toxicity. This occurs because organophosphates inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) in the nervous system. Without AChE's activity, there is an accumulation of ACh at the synapses and neuromuscular junctions, resulting in excessive stimulation of the cholinergic receptors. This excess of ACh can lead to overstimulation of muscles, excessive secretions, breathing difficulties, and ultimately, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Medical personnel often use anticholinergic medications such as atropine as part of standard treatment for nerve agent poisoning. Anticholinergics work by blocking the muscarinic effects of ACh, thus reducing the symptoms caused by the buildup of acetylcholine due to the inhibited AChE.