Fatal poisoning by malathion

Introduction: Malathion, commonly referred to as organophosphorus, is used for control of insects on fruits and vegetables. Organophosphate compounds, which can cause depression of respiratory and cardiovascular centres, are commonly used as a form of suicidal attempt among agricultural workers. Objective: To highlight an interesting case of malathion poisoning and discuss the literature. Method: This case study reported a lady, who had financial problems with her employer, was found dead after consuming some suspicious poisonous liquid. Result: Autopsy showed blood-tinged whitish froth exuding from her mouth and nostrils. Histology of the liver showed sinusoidal dilatation with hepatocyte vacuolations. Sections from the kidney showed glomerular degeneration with vacuoles in renal tubular cells. Gross findings and histological features were further described in the discussion. Conclusion: Numerous findings were reported in animals, but there were paucity descriptions in human study. This study may be used to compare with other studies involving malathion poisoning in human.