The acronym SLUDGE is used to describe symptoms of which type of toxicity?

The acronym SLUDGE is used to describe symptoms of which type of toxicity?

• A. Respiratory toxicity
• B. Dermal toxicity
• C. Cholinergic toxicity symptoms
• D. Cardiac toxicity

Answer: (C)

SLUDGE points to the muscarinic effects of cholinergic toxicity from excess acetylcholine, typically after acetylcholinesterase inhibition. It stands for Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, Gastrointestinal upset, and Emesis, reflecting increased secretions and smooth-muscle activity driven by parasympathetic stimulation. This pattern is characteristic of cholinergic crises, such as organophosphate poisoning, and helps distinguish it from toxicity that is primarily respiratory, dermal, or cardiac in nature.

SLUDGE points to the muscarinic effects of cholinergic toxicity from excess acetylcholine, typically after acetylcholinesterase inhibition. It stands for Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, Gastrointestinal upset, and Emesis, reflecting increased secretions and smooth-muscle activity driven by parasympathetic stimulation. This pattern is characteristic of cholinergic crises, such as organophosphate poisoning, and helps distinguish it from toxicity that is primarily respiratory, dermal, or cardiac in nature.