Acute Poisoning in Southern Iraq: A Retrospective Study from Al-Nasiriyah

Poisoning is a significant public health concern globally, often leading to emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Timely and effective management is crucial to prevent mortality and complications. This study aimed to investigate the patterns of acute poisoning cases and their management in Al-Nasiriyah City, Iraq, with the assistance of the Thi-Qar Poison Control Center. A retrospective analysis of poisoning cases registered at emergency departments in Al-Nasiriyah Hospitals from 2013 to 2019 was conducted based on recommendations from the Poison Control Center. A total of 1993 poisoning cases were identified during the study period. Approximately equal numbers of males (59.2%) and females (40.8%) were affected. The majority of cases involved individuals under 12 years old (53.8%), followed by teenagers (20.9%) and adults (25.3%). Most poisonings were accidental (66.7%), with suicide cases accounting for 24% and misuse cases for 9.3%. The majority of patients sought medical attention within 24 hours of exposure, and the prognosis was favorable for 97.6% of cases. Commonly implicated drugs included acetaminophen and carbamazepine, while organophosphates, zinc phosphide, and pyrethroids were the most frequent pesticide-related poisonings. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions were employed in the management of acute poisoning cases, with activated charcoal, N-acetyl cysteine, and atropine being among the most commonly used drugs. The study revealed a high incidence of intentional poisoning in younger individuals and accidental poisoning in children. Acetaminophen and carbamazepine toxicity were prevalent, as were organophosphate, zinc phosphide, and pyrethroid poisonings. Mortality rates were low, with deaths primarily limited to cases involving zinc/aluminum phosphide and organophosphate poisoning