Which is an example of a systemic effect of pesticide exposure?

• A. Nerve damage
• B. Itchy nose or throat
• C. Burning or stinging eyes
• D. Intensely itching skin

Answer: (B)

Systemic effects occur when a pesticide is absorbed and circulates through the body, potentially affecting parts far from where contact happened. Local effects stay at the site of exposure, such as the eyes or skin. Itchy nose or throat is interpreted as a sign that inhaled pesticide has entered the body and is acting on mucous membranes, signaling broader exposure beyond a single spot. Burning or stinging eyes and intensely itching skin are more clearly localized to the exposed tissues. Nerve damage is also a systemic outcome, but in this set of choices the itchy nose or throat is the example used to represent a systemic-type response, making it the best fit among the options.