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 pe rsons occurred after accidental ingestion of ripened Atropa belladonna berries. Three of the four adults displayed delirious states with vis ual hallucinations; one patient fell into a coma and required mechanic al ventilation. Four children and one adult exhibited mild peripheral anticholinergic symptoms. Kinetic data were obtained on the three hosp italized adults. Discussion: The optimal intensive care for such patie nts is discussed.