[Anticholinergic syndrome after intoxication by lupine seeds (Tourmos)].

INTRODUCTION

Yellow lupine seeds (Tourmos) are frequently used as snack in Lebanon but their potential toxicity is extremely rare (five published cases) and often undiagnosed.

CASE REPORTS: Two patients presented with anticholinergic syndrome (mydriasis, mouth dryness, palpitations, general malaise) after ingestion of 200-500 g of bitter lupine seeds (not soaked enough in water). No other cause of intoxication was found, and symptoms disappeared spontaneously in 24-36h.

DISCUSSION: Yellow lupine seeds need a long preparation (boiling then soaking with several changes of water) to debitter before consumption. The spontaneous bitter taste is mainly due to the presence of a toxic substance with anticholinergic properties, lupanine. An insufficient preparation or a preference for bitter lupin can result in intoxication.