Identification of oenanthotoxin and related compounds in hemlock water dropwort poisoning

The case histories are presented of three separate incidents of poisoning by ingestion of Hemlock Water Dropwort tubers (Oenanthe crocata). Two of these cases involved a fatality. An analytical profile is provided for oenanthotoxin, the major toxic principal of the tubers. Chromatographic, spectroscopic and mass spectral data for related compounds are also given.