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Paraquat Poisoning
Paraquat poisoning is a medical emergency resulting from exposure to paraquat, a potent and highly toxic herbicide commonly used in agriculture. The poison can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, and even small amounts can be lethal. Once absorbed, paraquat generates reactive oxygen species that cause extensive cellular damage, particularly in the lungs, liver, and kidneys. Initial symptoms of paraquat poisoning include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, often with blood. As the condition progresses, it leads to respiratory distress, acute kidney injury, liver failure, and potentially fatal pulmonary fibrosis. Inhalation can cause severe lung damage, while skin contact may lead to burns and systemic toxicity if not promptly treated.Diagnosis is primarily based on the history of exposure and clinical symptoms, supported by laboratory tests that detect paraquat in blood or urine. Unfortunately, there is no specific antidote for paraquat poisoning. Treatment focuses on reducing further absorption of the toxin—typically through gastric lavage, activated charcoal, or Fuller's earth—and supportive care to manage symptoms and complications. This may include oxygen therapy, dialysis for kidney failure, and other intensive care measures.Due to its extreme toxicity and the lack of effective treatments, paraquat use is highly restricted and banned in many countries. In regions where it is still used, strict safety protocols are enforced to minimize the risk of exposure.
About the Speaker
![Dr. Ranjith Ravella
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Dr. Ranjith Ravella
Internal Medicine Consultant at KHIMS Hospital, Khammam
Dr. Ranjith Ravella is a distinguished medical professional with an MBBS and MD in General Medicine from Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore. Currently serving as an Internal Medicine Consultant at KHIMS Hospital in Khammam, he has held significant academic roles, including Assistant Professor at Mamatha Medical College, Khammam, and former Assistant Professor at Apollo Medical College, Hyderabad. Dr. Ravella also gained valuable experience as a Non-Academic Junior Resident at AIIMS, New Delhi. His exemplary service has been recognized with the prestigious 'Seva Ratna award' from the Mother Teresa Foundation in Hyderabad. Additionally, his contributions to medical research have been honored with the 'Young Research Scholar Grant' from the International Digestive Disease Forum (IDDF) in Hong Kong.
Upcoming Case Discussions
Clinician’s Approach to Hypertensive Nephropathy
Many processes influence the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and lead to the development of hypertension in the disease. Increased sympathetic tone in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a result of afferent signals produced by functionally failing kidneys. The great majority of CKD patients suffer from hypertension, which can both cause and result from the disease. In people with CKD, controlling hypertension is crucial since it lowers the risk of CVD and slows the disease's course. There is no agreement on the ideal blood pressure (BP) targets provided by current guidelines. Consequently, when deciding how to care specific patients.
Anaphylaxis In Emergency Department
A dangerous systemic hypersensitivity reaction with a typically quick onset that can be fatal is anaphylaxis. Rapid onset of breathing, circulation,and/or airway issues are its defining characteristics. The most crucial treatment is intramuscular adrenaline, although many patients do not receive it even in medical facilities, despite recommendations to the contrary. The significance of positioning during the management of anaphylaxis and the necessity of avoiding activities that could postpone the timely and proper delivery of adrenaline. Antihistamines should only be used as a last resort when ABC characteristics have been successfully treated in order to lessen skin involvement.
Circulatory Shock In Trauma
The inability of the circulatory system to supply tissue oxygenation and organ perfusion necessary to meet cellular metabolic demands is known as shock. Although non-haemorrhagic shock, such as cardiogenic or neurogenic shock, can occur after trauma, hemorrhage is more frequently linked to trauma-related shock. Evidence gathered over the past ten years has shown that trauma patients suffer from acute traumatic coagulopathy (ATC), which is brought on by the actual process of injury. Damage control resuscitation (DCR), the current method for managing acute shock, was developed with this as a key component. Haemostatic resuscitation, which uses blood products as the main resuscitative fluid, permissive hypotension, and damage control surgery are the three main resuscitative techniques included in DCR.
Fertilization & Early Development
Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell merges with an egg cell, creating a zygote, which is the first stage of a new life. This process takes place in the fallopian tube. The zygote then undergoes rapid cell division, known as cleavage, forming a multi-cellular structure called a blastocyst. As the blastocyst moves toward the uterus, it continues to divide and develop. Approximately 5-7 days after fertilization, the blastocyst implants itself into the uterine lining, initiating pregnancy. Early development involves the formation of the foundational structures and systems that will shape the embryo.
Metabolic Syndrome and Heart Health
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. When these risk factors occur together, they amplify the risk of developing cardiovascular issues. Metabolic syndrome is closely linked to insulin resistance, where the body struggles to use insulin effectively. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, are crucial in managing the syndrome. Early intervention is essential to prevent the progression to heart disease and other complications.