Avermectin intoxication with coma, myoclonus, and polyneuropathy

Abstract

Introduction: Avermectin has been used in the control of parasites and insects. Severe poisoning symptoms in humans include altered mental status, hypotension, and respiratory failure.

Case report: We describe a case of acute avermectin intoxication at a very high dose (414.2 mg/kg) who presented with coma, myoclonus, and polyneuropathy after oral ingestion.

Discussion: The symptoms are supposed to be associated directly with the avermectin poisoning and possibly with the toxicity of solvents or other additives.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case with avermectin poisoning associated with myoclonus and polyneuropathy in the literature.