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.