Poisoning

doi:10.1017/9781009052733.093

Chapter 92 - Poisoning

from Section 13 - Venoms and Poisons

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 June 2025

Sari Soghoian and

Edited by

Dorothy Yeboah-Manu ,

Michael Marks and

David Mabey: Affiliation:
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Martin W. Weber: Affiliation:
World Health Organization
Moffat Nyirenda: Affiliation:
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Dorothy Yeboah-Manu: Affiliation:
Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana
Jackson Orem: Affiliation:
Uganda Cancer Institute, Kampala
Laura Benjamin: Affiliation:
University College London
Michael Marks: Affiliation:
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Nicholas A. Feasey: Affiliation:
Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine

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Summary

Almost anything that can be absorbed internally can be poisonous. Molecular structures, physical and chemical properties determine how specific agents act in the body. The likelihood of poisoning depends primarily on the circumstances and degree of exposure. Some highly toxic substances such as cyanide are dangerous in minute quantities, whereas other agents require large or repeated exposures to cause harm. Medications, essential vitamins and minerals, and even water can be poisonous at some doses. The route and duration of exposure, environmental factors and individual characteristics such as age, nutrition, pre-existing illnesses and genetic differences also influence the risk and pattern of toxicity. This chapter provides some general principles to help guide clinicians in the management of acutely poisoned patients. More specific guidance for diagnosing and treating select, common ingestions is also reviewed.

Type: Chapter
Information: Principles of Medicine in Africa , pp. 1044 - 1053

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009052733.093 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2025

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References

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