Legal Standard
EPA Toxicology Test Guidelines & WPS
Cholinesterase Inhibition
Statutory Definition:
The biochemical mechanism by which organophosphate and carbamate insecticides deactivate the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, causing toxic accumulation of acetylcholine at neural synapses.
Practical Exam Application:
Produces acute symptoms known as SLUDGE: Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, GI distress, and pinpoint pupils (miosis). Atropine is the physiological antidote.