Unintentional toxicity due to endosulfan: a case report of two patients and characteristics of endosulfan toxicity.

Abstract

Unrestricted use of endosulfan, a cyclic chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticide, results in many intentional and unintentional toxicities in Turkey. Due to its chemical stability in the environment, toxicity may be seen even if exposure happens 6-mo after the endosulfan has been sprayed. We discuss a case of 2 patients with unintentional exposure to endosulfan after eating contaminated foods, one of which presented with neurological manifestations and required mechanical ventilation, the other having only mild symptoms. Because of the toxicity to humans and threats for nature, use of endosulfan should be restricted or banned.