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Introduction

Anthraquinones are a group of similar chemicals that are quinone derivatives, simply put, they are derived from a chemical called quinone. Since they are derived from quinone, there is the possibility of many types being formed, since any minor modification of the molecule makes it chemically different. Ands with any chemical difference, the effects on the human will be different. This is the case with Anthraquinones. There are many different types, each slightly different, but with different effects. Anthraquinones also occur widely in nature. We can find them in the plants aloe vera, senna, cascara, segrada and rhubarb. These give the plant its cathartic (causes bowel evacuation) properties. Some synthetic (man-made) derivatives of anthraquinones are also used medicinally, as in the antineoplastic (anticancer) drug mitoxantrone. Anthraquinone is also used in dyes, other chemical processes and as an inescticide in insect repellants. And this is where many children are at risk for accidental ingestion. Additionally, skin absorption of repellant is something that we should be aware of, and of course, consumption of pesticides on commercially grown produce.

Treatment of anthraquinone poisoning

Treatment from anthraquinone poisoning includes gastric lavage and catharthis, and if respiratory depression occurs, artificial respiration to keep the victim alive. Any accidental ingestion of pesticide or herbicide should be treated as a life-threatening emergency, even if no signs or symptoms are present. Life can deteriorate rapidly and therefore, immediate medical treatment should be sought. With poisoning, respiration (breathing) can stop or slow. And until emergency medical care can be obtained (eg., on route to hospital, or until waiting for help to arrive), artificial respiration is necessary to keep the person alive. Since they cannot breathe, because of action of the anthraquinone, someone else must breathe for them, otherwise they will not get oxygen into the blood, which is fatal. Of course, the consideration must be made, of is there poison in the victims mouth. Did the individual accidently drink a pesticide, or was it intentionaly. If this is a possibility, you can keep first aid kits, with tubes, usually, wiping the mouth and keeping a dry lip to lip seal sufficient during artificial respirations, but I thought I'd enlighten on this point in the rare event of this occurence.