Occupational acute poisonings with methomyl: role of dermal exposure and need for preventive measures

Abstract

Methomyl, a potent anticholinesterase carbamate insecticide, is markedly toxic in man following suicidal ingestion. Thirteen cases of acute field-poisonings in rural workers after spraying methomyl reported to the Lyon Poison Centre demonstrate that poisoning can occur following occupational exposure. In this setting, the cutaneous route is critical. Although recovery was obtained uneventfully within 48 h in all cases, preventive measures are essential to avoid accidental poisonings. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.