Paraquat Tongue

A 20-year-old male was admitted to our critical care unit, after several hours of suicide by ingesting between 10 and 20 ml of paraquat. His main symptoms were nausea and headache. Basic laboratory investigations were normal except for prolonged INR which was corrected over the next few days. An endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract was positive for esophagitis. The tongue was coated with granulation from erosion as shown in the image [Figure 1].Figure 1: Tongue with multiple eroded areas due to paraquat ingestionParaquat is a herbicide frequently described in suicide attempts.[1] Paraquat tongue is a manifestation caused by contact of paraquat on the lingual mucosa.[2–4] Intoxication by paraquat is associated with potential multisystem complications.[5]Paraquat-induced tongue ulceration is associated with pain and sialorrhea. It is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract fast within a few hours. Alterations of oxidation-reduction reactions occur at the cellular level (4 h–6 h). Early evaluation and appropriate monitoring are essential tools to manage complications associated with paraquat intake. Paraquat tongue must be handled with adequate hydration, analgesia, and strict surveillance due to the risk of overinfection in the lingual and oropharyngeal areas. Declaration of patient consent The authors certify that they have obtained all appropriate patient consent forms. In the form, the patient(s) has/have given his/her/their consent for his/her/their images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patients understand that their names and initials will not be published and due efforts will be made to conceal their identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.