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Cicutoxin poisoning (water hemlock)

E Starreveld, E Hope

    Neurology
    |August 1, 1975
    PubMed

    Insights

    Severe cicutoxin poisoning from water hemlock ingestion was effectively managed using continuous intravenous thiopentone sodium infusion. This treatment controlled seizures and addressed metabolic acidosis and cholinergic crisis, showcasing its efficacy in managing this poisoning.

    Area of Science:

    • Toxicology
    • Neurology
    • Emergency Medicine

    Background:

    • Water hemlock (Cicuta maculata) contains cicutoxin, a potent neurotoxin.
    • Cicutoxin poisoning can lead to severe neurological and metabolic disturbances.
    • Cholinergic crisis is a hallmark of severe cicutoxin poisoning.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To report a case of severe cicutoxin poisoning.
    • To evaluate the efficacy of thiopentone sodium in managing cicutoxin poisoning.
    • To provide a detailed assessment of the patient's neurologic and biochemical status.

    Main Methods:

    • Continuous intravenous infusion of thiopentone sodium.
    • Continuous intravenous infusion of thiopentone sodium.
    • Detailed neurologic and biochemical monitoring.

    Main Results:

    • Thiopentone sodium effectively controlled gross, irregular body movements.
    • Continuous infusion managed metabolic acidosis.
    • The treatment successfully addressed the cholinergic crisis.

    Conclusions:

    • Continuous intravenous thiopentone sodium infusion is an optimal treatment for severe cicutoxin poisoning.
    • This management strategy effectively controls neurological and metabolic complications.
    • Prompt and appropriate medical intervention is crucial for favorable outcomes in cicutoxin poisoning.

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