1PGJR, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
2Assistant Professor, Department of Nephrology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
3Associate Professor, Department of Nephrology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
4Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
5Associate Professor and Head, Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
*Corresponding Author: Dr. Arvinder Wander, Associate Professor and Head, Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India, Email: wander1686@gmail.com, Contact: +917009890442
Online published on 24 September, 2025.
Paraquat (PQ) is a widely used herbicide with high lethality, especially when ingested. Despite its agricultural utility, PQ poses a significant health hazard due to its potential for accidental or intentional poisoning. This report describes two adolescent cases of PQ poisoning with contrasting outcomes. The first case involved a 14-year-old who consumed a smaller quantity of PQ and responded favourably to early hemoperfusion, supportive care, and antioxidants, eventually making a full recovery.
The second case, a 15-year-old who ingested a larger amount, presented late with severe renal dysfunction and progressive pulmonary fibrosis, ultimately resulting in death despite intensive care. These cases illustrate the dose-dependent toxicity of PQ and the critical importance of early recognition, prompt decontamination, and aggressive supportive therapy. With no definitive antidote available, management focuses on organ support and mitigating oxidative damage. The contrasting outcomes emphasize the need for early intervention to improve survival in PQ poisoning.
Paraquat Poisoning, ARDS, Chemical Pneumonitis, Dialysis, Hemoperfusion
