Vol.21 Issue No.2 (2025): Journal of Indian Society of Toxicology

Zinc Toxicity Causes Necrotic Death of C6 Glioma Cells and Affects Chemosensory Ability of Caenorhabditis elegans

Nathan Gonsalves, Bhaskar Saha*

Aims and Objectives: Zinc is an essential micronutrient responsible for cellular homeostasis and functioning. Exposure to elevated zinc levels leads to neurological disorders such as brain ischemia, trauma and epileptic seizures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cellular mechanisms affected by high zinc exposure both in vitro (using C6 glioma cells) and in vivo (Caenorhabditis elegans) systems.

Materials and methods: Survival and mitochondrial integrity of C6 cells were measured by MTT assay with control and Zinc-exposed cells. Microscopic analysis following Giemsa staining was performed to assess the nature of cell death. Chemotaxis assay was performed with age-synchronized adult C. elegans using 2-Nonanone.

Results: Our results from the in vitro studies indicate that progressively increasing levels of zinc exposure affects cell survival and proliferation of C6 cells, with changes in cellular morphology, mitochondrial dysfunction and induction of reactive oxygen species

Death due to Diclofenac Sodium: A Case Report

Minakshi Ghuge*, Jyoti Bobde**, Deepak Bhosle**

Introduction: Diclofenac sodium, a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is generally regarded as safe for postoperative analgesia. However, rare but severe hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis have been reported. This case report describes a fatal adverse event following intravenous administration of diclofenac.

Case report: A 43-year-old female patient who underwent a total laparoscopic hysterectomy for uterine fibroids was prescribed injection diclofenac by intravenous route. Shortly after initiating a 75 mg diclofenac infusion, the patient developed a burning sensation, erythema, shortness of breath, and generalised pruritus, followed by unconsciousness and cardiovascular collapse. Despite immediate discontinuation of the infusion and administration of emergency medications, including chlorpheniramine, hydrocortisone, adrenaline, and inotropes, the patient did not recover and succumbed to cardiac arrest approximately 24 hours later. The reaction was categorised as a serious and life-threatening adverse drug reaction (ADR) and reported to the pharmaco-

vigilance system. Causality assessment using the WHO-UMC scale suggested a “possible” link with diclofenac, and the event was classified as Level 7 (lethal) according to Hartwig's severity assessment.

Conclusion: This case highlights the potential for severe anaphylaxis following intravenous NSAID use, emphasising the need for heightened clinical vigilance, thorough drug history evaluation, and emergency preparedness during perioperative analgesic administration.

Postmortem Sperm Retrieval in a Case of Paraquat-Induced Death

Postmortem sperm retrieval (PMSR) is an emerging technique in forensic and reproductive medicine, particularly relevant in cases of sudden or premature death. Paraquat poisoning is associated with severe multi-organ toxicity and high mortality; however, its impact on postmortem sperm viability is poorly documented. We report a case of PMSR performed in a 24-year-old male who died due to paraquat poisoning. Epididymal wash was undertaken during a medicolegal autopsy. Semen analysis demonstrated preserved motility and viability despite acute toxic exposure and a postmortem interval of approximately 15 hours. Histopathological examination of the testes revealed intact spermato- genesis. This case demonstratesthe feasibility of PMSR even in acute toxicological deaths and supports the potential utility of PMSR in forensic and assisted reproductive contexts.

Crossroads of Industrial Chemistry and Clinical Toxicology: A Rare Case of Organotin Poisoning

Varshini D R*, Balamurugan Nathan**, Sreekara V R***

Background: Cresylic acid and tributyltin oxide (TBTO) are prevalent industrial compounds utilized in household biocides and disinfectants. Oral intake, particularly when coupled, can result in significant systemic toxicity, even though human exposure often occurs through inhalation or dermal routes.

Case Presentation: A 19-year-old woman from rural India intentionally ingested a disinfectant that contained TBTO and cresylic acid, which caused multiple organ poisoning in an unusual case. She responded to supportive therapy and eventually made a complete recovery.

Conclusions: This case emphasizes the possibly life-threatening risks associated with exposure to phenolic,and organotin compounds and highlights the value of early supportive treatment and careful supervision. Because there isn't a lot of information on co-ingestion in humans, clinicians should treat such poisonings as if they were novel exposures.

Fatal Myocardial Rupture Following Imidacloprid Poisoning: A Case Report

Nathan Gonsalves, Bhaskar Saha*

Imidacloprid is generally considered to be relatively safer than other insecticides, such as organophosphorus, carbamates, and organo-chlorines. A 32-year-old male had a history of consumption of Imidacloprid insecticide and alcohol, which resulted in myocarditis, myocardial rupture and tamponade, as identified during the postmortem examination. Reported cases of Imidacloprid poisoning usually present with mild gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. There is growing evidence that Imidacloprid poisoning may cause damage to cardiac, renal, and other organs. However, this incident underscores the rare presentation of grave cardiac features following its consumption. This case serves to highlight the uncommon manifestations of Imidacloprid poisoning, with the goal of raising awareness, encouraging betterinvestigative and treatment strategies for this type of poisoning.

Clinical Profile and Antivenom Utilization in Snakebite Patients at a Tertiary Care Center in Northern India

Shiuli Rathore, Himanshu Reddy Dandu, Akash Singh

Snakebite envenomation remains a significant public health concern in India, particularly in rural areas, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality. This cross-sectional observational pilot study evaluated the clinical profile of snakebite patients and the impact of anti-snake venom (ASV) dosing on outcomes at a tertiary care center in northern India. A total of 51 patients admitted between September and October 2022 were included. Most patients were males (62.7%) and belonged to the 20–40-year age group, with a predominance from rural areas (84.31%). The majority of bites occurred during nocturnal hours and at home. Neurotoxic envenomation was the most common presentation, with ptosis, visual disturbances, and respiratory distress frequently observed. A large proportion of patients were referred from peripheral centers, often after receiving incomplete or no ASV, and harmful first-aid practices such as tourniquet application were common. The mean ASV dose administered was 22.18 vials, with no significant difference between neurotoxic and hemotoxic cases. Mechanical ventilation was required in 31.37% of patients. Most patients recovered without disability, while mortality was 7.84%. The study highlights gaps in early management, inappropriate first-aid practices, and variability in ASV use, emphasizing the need for improved peripheral care, timely intervention, and standardized treatment protocols.