The toxicology of organophosphorus compounds was reviewed and discussed. Most of the organophosphorus chemicals in use have served as insecticides, acaricides, fungicides, or cotton defoliants. Most organophosphorus insecticides were contact poisons, but systemic organophosphorus insecticides were absorbed by plants. Some were used during World War-II as potential chemical warfare agents. Some have been used as treatment for glaucoma and to treat children's sleepwear, rendering it flame retardant. Other industrial uses included plasticizers and industrial fluids used in the application of wall coverings and in plasticized automotive upholstering. The action of these compounds through the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase was described. Signs and symptoms of acute poisoning, diagnosis, and treatment of organophosphorus poisoning were outlined. Information was provided concerning organophosphorus induced delayed neurotoxicity (OPIDN), including mechanisms of OPIDN. The organophosphorus induced late acute effects was described and discussed.
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