Acute Kidney Injury in Paraquat Poisoning : A Study of 400 Cases

Background Paraquat (PQ) a synthetic weedicide is often consumed with the intent to commit suicide. PQ can accumulate in the lungs and kidneys through redox reactions, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and causing severe pulmonary fibrosis and acute tubular necrosis. Literature on PQ-acute kidney injury (PQ-AKI) is limited. Materials and Methods We reviewed data on patients referred to nephrology services to manage PQ-AKI between June 2014 and June 2024. We analyzed epidemiological data, clinical features, and outcomes. Results Four hundred patients were analyzed. The mean age was 30 ± 11 years. Of 1342 PQ admissions, approximately 30% developed AKI, with PQ-AKI accounting for 6. 2% of all cases with AKI during the period. Oligoanuria and deranged kidney function were reasons for referral. The majority were in stage 3 AKI (75%), of whom 45% received hemodialysis (HD). The mortality rate (75%) was associated with consumption quantity, gender, and multiorgan failure. Conclusion PQ-AKI is an important contributor to AKI in this region and is associated with high mortality. Quantity of consumption, gender, multiorgan failure, and latency in seeking medical care were associated with outcomes.