A SIGNIFICANT TOXIN: ALUMINUM PHOSPHIDE

Aluminum phosphide is a highly toxic fumigant used to control pests in agricultural products. It plays a critical role in food preservation and pest control. Its low cost and high efficiency ensure the safe transport of grains and feed in silos, ships, or trains. In the gastrointestinal tract, it rapidly transforms into the highly toxic phosphine gas (PH3). Phosphine gas blocks the mitochondrial respiratory chain by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase activity and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. Its high mortality rate and lack of a specific antidote make treatment difficult. Early diagnosis, supportive treatment, and control of oxidative stress are critical in reducing mortality. This review provides general information about aluminum phosphide, as well as information on its mechanism of action, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment protocols in cases of poisoning.