Kala pathar (Paraphenylene Diamine) poisoning; role of tracheostomy: Our experience at DHQ hospitals

Aim: To evaluate the presentation, outcome androle of tracheostomy in the management of kala pathar (Paraphenlene diamine) poisoning. Methods: All the patients presented in the emergency department withkalapathar (Paraphenylenediamine) poisoning were included. Results:A total of 88 cases with paraphenylenediamine (PPD) poisoning admitted to ICU. The majority of cases were young females from lower socioeconomic background with intentional suicidal attempts. Ascervicofascial swelling and angioneurotic oedema of upper aerodigestive tract being the prominent feature,emergency tracheostomy with assisted ventilation were performed in every patient. A high mortality rate was observed. Conclusions: Kala pathar (Paraphenylenediamine) is an extremely toxic agent when ingested with high morbidity and mortality Tracheostomy should be performed immediately as airway is the major concern.