ethion

noun

1. (uncountable)An organophosphate insecticide, [(dethoxyphosphinothioylthio)methylthio]-diethoxy-thioxophosphorane, that is known to neutralise the neural enzyme acetylcholinesterase.

   “The substantial polarity of ethion indicated by its molar refraction (100.1) probably indicates a strong adsorption on surfaces. Ethion may therefore persist as a surface residue allowing dermal exposure if reentry occurs before photochemical destruction or hydrolysis.”

   “Ethion is a colorless to amber colored liquid. It is soluble in most organic solvents including kerosine, but sparingly soluble in water. Ethion is highly toxic to animals.”

   “Salivary concentration of ethion was measured among pesticide applicators (Nigg et al., 1993). Elevated salivary ethion levels were observed in applicators following ethion spraying as compared to controls, and urinary metabolites levels and salivary ethion levels were somewhat correlated (r = 0.55), hence leading the authors to conclude that saliva could be used to confirm ethion exposure.”