A Rare Case of Acute Lung Injury due to Paraquat Poisoning

Dr. Anmol Singh, Dr. Abhijeet Singh, Dr. Ganesh Avhad, Dr. Madan Manmohan

Abstract: Paraquat, a widely used herbicide, is highly toxic with life-threatening effects on the lungs, liver, and kidneys. This case report discusses a 65-year-old male patient who presented with epigastric pain and burning sensation after accidental paraquat inhalation. Initial X-rays showed no active lung parenchymal disease. However, the patient developed acute gastritis, dysphagia, and acute kidney injury with raised WBC counts after ten days. Subsequent imaging revealed bronchial congestion and non-homogeneous opacities. HRCT Thorax showed ground-glass opacities and fibrotic changes. The patient improved with conservative medical management and was discharged with stable vitals. The case highlights the progression and management of paraquat-induced acute lung injury.

Keywords: paraquat poisoning, acute lung injury, HRCT Thorax, conservative management, toxic herbicide