T65.1

Clinical Causes: Accidental ingestion of products containing strychnine, such as pest control substances Deliberate poisoning or misuse for malicious purposes Handling or exposure during pest control activities without proper safety measures Contamination or adulteration of other substances with strychnine

Key Symptoms: Muscle spasms and stiffness Severe convulsions, often involving involuntary rhythmic movements Facial grimacing or trismus (lockjaw) Increased sensitivity to noise, light, and touch Difficulty breathing due to muscular rigidity Restlessness and agitation Elevated body temperature from sustained muscle activity Drooling or excessive salivation Vomiting and abdominal pain In extreme cases, coma or death

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis primarily involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. Laboratory tests such as blood and urine analysis may detect strychnine levels. Additional assessments may include neurological evaluations to observe muscular responses and reflexes. Due to the rapid onset of symptoms, diagnosis often relies on clinical presentation, especially in suspected poisoning cases. In certain situations, forensic analysis might be necessary to confirm exposure to strychnine.

Treatment Protocols: Administration of activated charcoal to limit absorption if ingestion is recent Use of anticonvulsants such as diazepam to control seizures Muscle relaxants to relieve rigidity Maintaining airway patency and assisting breathing if respiratory muscles are affected Monitoring and controlling body temperature Intravenous fluids for hydration and circulation support In severe cases, advanced interventions like sedation or mechanical ventilation may be necessary Post-recovery, psychological support and counseling might be beneficial depending on the context of poisoning