organophosphorus compound

organophosphorus compound

an organic ester of phosphoric or thiophosphoric acid; such compounds are powerful acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and are used as insecticides and anthelmintics. They are also used industrially as fire-resistant hydraulic fluids, coolants and lubricants and animals may be accidentally exposed to them. All organophosphorus compounds are poisonous, even those used pharmacologically, if given in large enough doses or in particular circumstances.

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organophosphorus compound-induced delayed neurotoxicity

paralysis occurring 3 weeks after exposure to organophosphorus compounds, especially industrial organophosphates; the degree of paralysis varies from weakness appearing as knuckling of the fetlocks to complete flaccid paralysis.

industrial organophosphorus compound

see organophosphorus compound (above). Includes aryl-, cresyl-, and tolyl- phosphates used commercially as flame retardants and wood preservatives. Access to the substances or, more commonly, premises contaminated by them may cause poisoning, especially delayed neurotoxicity.

organophosphorus compound insecticide

includes a very wide range of contact insecticides, systemic insecticides for animals and plants; all have significant toxic potential.

organophosphorus compound poisoning

signs of poisoning differ between the species. (1) Cattle show salivation and diarrhea, tremor and stiffness and a pathognomonic constriction of the pupil. (2) Sheep and pigs show predominantly nervous signs. In sheep ataxia, posterior paralysis and spinal cord degeneration are indicators. In pigs nystagmus, tremor, recumbency, posterior paralysis and drowsiness occur. (3) Horses show abdominal pain, diarrhea, ataxia, dyspnea and in foals acute bilateral laryngeal paralysis. (4) Dogs and cats show salivation, tremors and muscle fasciculations, vomiting and diarrhea, constriction of the pupils, ataxia and convulsions.