JIST

Abstract

Paraquat is a widely used herbicide with a high degree of human toxicity and a significant rate of fatality. The lungs are the primary target organ; however, paraquat exposure is also associated with acute tubular necrosis and hepatic injury. The absence of a specific antidote contributes to its high mortality. Owing to its marked pulmonary affinity, paraquat induces rapid alveolar damage, often culminating in respiratory failure. Clinical outcomes are largely influenced by the quantity of paraquat ingested and the timeliness of medical intervention. In this case series, histopathological changes across multiple organs were evaluated in six victims of paraquat poisoning. The findings were analysed in relation to the ingested dose and survival duration and interpreted in the context of the existing literature.