Pentachlorophenol poisoning. Report of 4 cases and review of the literature

: Pentachlorophenol (PCP) was, and still is, one of the most frequently used fungicides and pesticides. The use of PCP has been more restricted during the last few years. PCP's most important industrial application is as a wood preservative. The pentachlorophenol can be absorbed into the body by all the routes of occupational exposure. Some epidemiological observations suggest that exposure to PCP solutions may result in an increased risk for certain diseases in humans, e.g., immunodeficiency, blood disorders, malignancies, congenital anomalies. Chronic poisoning is difficult to detect since symptoms are often vague. Acute poisoning is due to interference with oxidative phosphorylation and can present itself as an unexpected case of sudden death. Four cases of PCP poisoning, including one fatalitie, occurred in two small wood preservative plants. All cases presented with increased serum creatinine phosphokinasa. The clinical finding are reported, and treatment modalities commented. At present there is no antidote for PCP. The basis for treatment is intensive supportive care to maintain vital bodily function. In one patient plasmapheresis was used and rapid recover was obtained. It is suggested that such therapy may be lifesaving in such intoxications.