Bleeding problems associated with occupational exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Sporadic reports have occurred on adverse health effects due to occupational exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides. We report a case of coagulation derangement in a pest-control officer and present the results of a survey of his colleagues.

METHODS AND RESULTS:

A 48-year-old man worked as a part-time pest-control officer applying rodenticides 3 h a week using gloves, but no mask, and without washing his hands between applications. He developed a symptomatic coagulation disturbance, probably caused by absorption of the poisons during work. No signs of coagulopathy were found in the patient's colleagues ( n=16), although basic hygiene measures were not always taken.

CONCLUSION:

Occupational exposure to anticoagulants should be considered in cases of unexplained bleeding. We recommend that measures be taken to minimize the risk of occupational intoxication.

• Authors: Susanne Wulff Svendsen, Henrik A Kolstad, Erik Steesby
• Journal: International archives of occupational and environmental health (Int Arch Occup Environ Health) Vol. 75 Issue 7 Pg. 515-7 (Sep 2002) ISSN: 0340-0131 [Print] Germany
• PMID: 12172900 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anticoagulants
• Rodenticides

Topics

• Anticoagulants (adverse effects)
• Blood Coagulation Disorders (chemically induced)
• Denmark
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Occupational Exposure (adverse effects)
• Pest Control
• Rodenticides (adverse effects)