Accidental Occupational Exposure to Phytosanitary Products: Experience of the Poison Control Center in Marseille From 2008 to 2010

ABSTRACT To gain better insight into the problem of accidental occupational exposure to phytosanitary products, a retrospective study of experience at the Poison Control Center in Marseille, France, was conducted for the period between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2010. A 129-case series was compiled. The study population was overwhelmingly male (83%), and the most common cause was insecticides (56.6% with a half pyrethrin and 21% organophosphate) and herbicides (26%). Although various exposure routes were observed, the most common were inhalation (43%) and skin contact (34%). The symptoms were mainly neurologic, digestive, and/or cutaneous. The severity of poisoning was generally mild, with no deaths or sequels. Only 5% of cases required hospitalization.