Cyanides are commonly used in industry. Hydrogen cyanide is used as a fumigant, cyanamide as fertiliser and other salts in metal cleaning and ore extraction processes. When a strong acid reacts with cyanide salts, hydrocyanic acid is liberated and it can cause poisoning.
Cyanide inhibits the cytochrome oxidase system for oxygen utilisation and acts as cellular poison within mitochondria. Following ingestion or inhalation, coma and death occur within seconds from Respiratory paralysis. Management: Instant treatment is needed for survival of patients IPPV with adequate oxygenation Cobalt tetracemate by rapid iv injection Sodium nitrite iv followed by sodium thiosulphate iv may also help General supportive care What are the complications of cyanide poisoning?
