Aluminum phosphide (AlP) is a cheap solid fumigant and a highly toxic pesticide which is commonly used for grain preservation. Aluminum phosphide has currently aroused interest with increasing number of cases in the past four decades due to increased use in agricultural and non-agricultural purposes and its easy availability in the markets has increased its misuse to commit suicide. Upon contact with moisture in the environment, Aluminum phosphide undergoes a chemical reaction yielding phosphine gas, which is the active pesticidal component. Phosphine inhibits cellular oxygen utilization and can induce lipid peroxidation. It was reported that Aluminum phosphide has a mortality rate more than 50% of intoxication cases. Poisoning with Aluminum phosphide has usually occurred in attempts to suicide. It is a more common case in adults rather than teenagers. In some eastern countries it is a quite common agent with rapid action for suicide. Up to date, there is no effective antidote or treatment for its intoxication the oxidative outcomes of phosphine. This article reviews the experimental and clinical features of Aluminum phosphide intoxication and tries to suggest a way to encounter its poisoning.

Keywords : Aluminum Phosphide, Phosphine, Management, Poisoning, Suicide.