Nerve agent poisoning can be differentiated by its hyperstimulation of glands. The paucity of distinct diagnostic signs and the lack of any sort of field detector make the diagnosis of Agent 15 toxicity extremely difficult. Maintain a high index of suspicion in scenarios in which terrorist or enemy chemical attack is possible. Multiple casualties exhibiting delirium indicate this diagnosis. Most standard urine toxicology screens do not detect the presence of Agent 15.
Confirmatory testing is available at select reference laboratories.
Routine laboratory tests can be helpful in ruling out other causes of delirium. Use chemical protective masks if residual aerosolized BZ or Agent 15 is present. Protective gowns and gloves are indicated. Decontamination of victims is critical and involves removing contaminated clothing and flushing the skin with soap and water. Fine particles can be brushed away gently.