Catastrophic Outcomes: Rapid Multi-Organ Failure from Paraquat Poisoning - A Case Report

Paraquat dichloride, a potent herbicide widely used in agriculture, poses a severe health risk due to its high toxicity. Ingesting even small amounts can cause fatal multi-organ failure. We report a case of a 19-year-old male who ingested approximately 5 ml of 24% paraquat dichloride. He presented with stable vital signs, but initial laboratory results showed elevated urea (26mg/dL), creatinine (0.97 mg/dL), and hypokalemia (3.2 mEq/L). Despite interventions including gastric lavage, N-Acetyl cysteine, methylprednisolone, and supportive care, he developed severe metabolic acidosis (HCO³- 22.8 to 16.3 mEq/L), acute renal failure (creatinine 0.97 to 4.62 mg/dL, urea 26 to 99 mg/dL, serum potassium 3.2 to 2.62 mEq/L), and multi-organ dysfunction. The unavailability of hemoperfusion has impacted the outcome. The patient's rapid deterioration highlights paraquat's aggressive nature and underscores the necessity for better therapeutic strategies and regulatory measures to prevent such poisoning.