Plasma and urine concentrations of atropine after the ingestion of cooked deadly nightshade berries.

BACKGROUND

Adult intoxications due to ingestion of deadly nightshade berries is uncommon.

CASE REPORTS

Collective intoxication of eight persons occurred after accidental ingestion of ripened Atropa belladonna berries. Three of the four adults displayed delirious states with visual hallucinations; one patient fell into a coma and required mechanical ventilation. Four children and one adult exhibited mild peripheral anticholinergic symptoms. Kinetic data were obtained on the three hospitalized adults.

DISCUSSION

The optimal intensive care for such patients is discussed.