Noxious toads and frogs of South Africa

The major defence mechanism in frogs is via the secretion of toxins from th eir skin. In humans, intoxication may occur when part of the amphibian inte gument is ingested, as in the form of herbal medicines. Two groups of South African frogs have skin secretions that are potentially lethal to humans a nd animals. Toads (Bufo and Schismaderma species), the amphibians with whic h man and his pets most frequently have contact, secrete potent toxins with cardiac glycoside activity. Topical and systemic intoxication, while seen in humans, remains predominantly a veterinary problem. Intoxication by the red-banded rubber frog, which secretes an unidentified cardiotoxin, is far less common. The probable mechanisms of intoxication and management of a po isoned patient are discussed.