An Overview of Cyanide Poisoning in Humans and Animals

Cyanide poisoning poses a significant global health risk, affecting both humans and animals due to its rapid and often fatal effects. Cyanide compounds, such as hydrogen cyanide, potassium cyanide, and cyanogenic glycosides found in certain plants, interfere with cellular respiration by blocking cytochrome oxidase, causing cytotoxic hypoxia and organ failure. Human exposure to cyanide is primarily linked to industrial activities such as mining and electroplating, as well as smoke inhalation during fires. Symptoms of poisoning include respiratory distress, dizziness, and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest and death if left untreated. In animals, particularly livestock, poisoning often results from consuming cyanogenic plants such as sorghum and specific grasses. Different species have varying susceptibility to cyanide, with cattle showing signs such as respiratory distress, seizures, and death after ingesting these plants. Detection methods for cyanide, including spectrophotometry, gas chromatography, and ion-selective electrodes, which analyze cyanide levels in blood, urine, or tissues. Treatment generally involves the administration of antidotes, such as hydroxocobalamin, sodium thiosulfate, and sodium nitrite, which neutralize cyanide in the body. The current study aimed to highlight the importance of stringent regulatory measures on cyanide usage in industrial and agricultural contexts to prevent accidental poisoning. Environmental monitoring and processing of safe food are vital to reduce the incidence of cyanide poisoning in both humans and animals.