Pesticide Poisoning in a Preschool Child: A Case Study Examining Neurocognitive and Neurobehavioral Effects

Abstract

Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides, has been shown to have adverse effects in humans, particularly neurological effects. Cases of acute pesticide poisoning occur less frequently and are less well documented; specific deficits (e.g., in processing speed, working memory) have not consistently been discussed. This is a case study of a preschooler who underwent a neuropsychological assessment due to a pesticide poisoning. His parents reported attention, speech, social, and gross and fine motor concerns after the poisoning. A number of methods and measures were used, including observational data, neuropsychological, and behavioral and social-emotional measures. Consistent with past research, results from the assessment demonstrated the subtle and not-so-subtle effects of acute pesticide poisoning. Implications of the findings are discussed.

Key words:

• early childhood
• neurocognitive assessment
• pesticide
• poisoning
• teratogens

Notes

*Mental Processing Index is included here only to illustrate the difference in functioning depending on the combination of subtests considered.