[Severe poisoning with the organophosphorus insecticide thionazine--2 cases with the development of adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)].

Among the insecticides, organophosphorous compounds are the agents most involved in deliberate and involuntary intoxications. The toxic effect is mainly due to the inhibition of cholinesterase at the cholinergic synapses. Two cases of severe involuntary intoxication are described which were characterized by the development of ARDS.