Cyanide poisoning- an update

Acute cyanide (CN) poisoning leads to deterioration of body functions and often results in death. It can be accidental, suicidal, at times homicidal. Since the historical period, CN has been cause for several deaths, including fire accidents, industrial waste leakage, suicides famous persons, planned massacres. Several sources lead poisonings, such as smoke from fire, mining other industries, nitriles, plants. The primary function is inhibit cytochrome oxidase a3 enzyme due high binding affinity ferric iron found haem moiety uncoupling mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation inhibiting cellular respiration. Clinical signs symptoms are primarily dose-related range gastrointestinal involvement coma In addition decontaminating poison essential supportive treatment, effective antidotes available. Last six years, fifteen Fatalities following were reported Teaching Hospital, Jaffna. Social support an adequate legal framework controlling CN-containing substances could reduce burden toxicity.