toxikation

Toxikation, or poisoning, is the condition resulting from exposure to toxic substances that impair normal bodily function. It can arise from ingestion, inhalation, dermal absorption, or injection of chemicals, drugs, or biological toxins. The clinical course varies with the agent and dose.

Agents include household chemicals, pesticides, industrial solvents, heavy metals, medicines in overdose, alcohols, and natural toxins. Exposure may be acute or chronic, and mixed exposures complicate diagnosis. Risk factors include young age, occupational hazards, and impaired organ function.

Toxins can disrupt cellular processes by enzyme inhibition, oxidative stress, membrane damage, or interference with neurotransmission and energy production, leading to organ dysfunction.

Symptoms depend on the toxin, commonly including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain; dizziness or confusion; seizures; respiratory or cardiac abnormalities. Diagnosis relies on history, physical exam, and targeted laboratory tests, including toxin concentrations when available, and toxicology screens. Imaging or ECG may be used for specific toxins.

Initial steps include securing airway, breathing, and circulation; decontamination if presentation is early (activated charcoal for certain ingestions); removing ongoing exposure; and supportive care. Specific antidotes exist for selected toxins (e.g., naloxone for opioids, N-acetylcysteine for acetaminophen, chelation for certain metals). Poison control centers provide guidance.

Prevention focuses on safe storage and handling of chemicals, proper labeling, childproofing, workplace safety, and public health measures. The prognosis after toxikation depends on the toxin, dose, timeliness of treatment, and patient factors; many cases recover with prompt management, though severe exposures may cause lasting damage or death.