Paraquat Poisoning: An Observational Study from a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract Background: Paraquat, a widely used herbicide in India, is associated with high mortality due to its severe multiorgan toxicity and lack of a specific antidote. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile, complications, and outcomes of paraquat poisoning in a tertiary care setting. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute, Hubballi, including 122 patients with confirmed paraquat ingestion from January 2022 to December 2024. Demographic data, clinical features, laboratory findings, complications, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed. Results: The majority were young males (mean age: 31.22 ± 13.12 years), with 62 (50.81%) mortality. Early symptoms included nausea in 118 cases (96.72%), throat pain in 110 cases (90.16%), and vomiting in 108 cases (88.52%). Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) developed in 49 (40.16%) cases, and acute kidney injury (AKI) in 84 (68.85%) cases, with 78 (63.93%) requiring dialysis. ARDS had the highest mortality rate (93.87%), showing a strong association with death ( P < 0.00001). Conclusions: Paraquat poisoning remains a critical health emergency with high fatality rates, especially when complicated by ARDS and AKI. Early diagnosis, rapid referral, and intensive supportive care are essential but may not be enough in severe cases. Strong regulatory control and public health interventions are urgently needed to reduce incidence and improve outcomes.