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Which of the following is a symptom of severe pesticide poisoning?

  1. Itching skin

  2. Pinpoint pupils

  3. Stomach upset

  4. Chest pain

The correct answer is: Pinpoint pupils

Pinpoint pupils, also known as miosis, is a significant symptom of severe pesticide poisoning, particularly associated with organophosphate and carbamate insecticides. These types of pesticides function as neurotoxins that inhibit acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. When this enzyme is inhibited, acetylcholine accumulates at nerve synapses, leading to overstimulation of muscles, glands, and the central nervous system, resulting in the characteristic constriction of the pupils. Recognizing pinpoint pupils is vital for medical personnel as it can indicate a serious level of toxicity that may require immediate intervention. The awareness of this symptom helps in the timely identification and treatment of pesticide poisoning cases, making it an essential point of knowledge for pesticide applicators and healthcare providers.