Pattern of acute intoxication in Florence: a comparative investigation.

A worldwide analysis of acute intoxications is attempted, trying to weigh their medical and economic burden, and the toll for acute poisonings in terms of morbidity and mortality. The natural history of acute intoxications reveals 2 common patterns, such as the increase in number and the changing profile of acute poisonings. The need for a common taxonomy is emphasised, as a tool to allow a more thorough comparison of the epidemiological records. A deeper insight into the basic mechanisms of acute intoxications is envisaged, with the aim of providing the pharmacological basis of therapeutics in acute poisonings.