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Related Experiment Videos

Retrospective study of mistletoe ingestion

H A Spiller1, D B Willias, S E Gorman

  • 1Kentucky Regional Poison Center, Louisville, Kentucky 40232-5070, USA.

Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary

Accidental Phoradendron flavescens (American Mistletoe) exposure rarely causes severe symptoms, with most cases being asymptomatic or mild. Seizures are a rare but possible outcome, not previously reported.

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Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Plant Poisoning

Background:

  • Limited data exists on accidental Phoradendron flavescens (American Mistletoe) exposure.
  • Previous reports suggest minimal risk, with one fatality from intentional ingestion.
  • The plant is often perceived as dangerous despite minimal toxicity data.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review cases of accidental Phoradendron flavescens exposure.
  • To assess the toxicity and clinical outcomes of mistletoe ingestion.
  • To evaluate the necessity of medical intervention for accidental exposures.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of 92 human cases from three poison centers (1990-1993).
  • Analysis of patient demographics, ingested amounts, symptoms, and treatments.
  • Correlation of symptoms with ingested quantity and plant parts (berries/leaves).

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Main Results:

  • Ninety-two cases reviewed; mean age was six years.
  • Eleven symptomatic cases: gastrointestinal upset (6), drowsiness (2), eye irritation (1), ataxia (1), and seizure (1).
  • Ingestion of up to 20 berries or 5 leaves often resulted in no symptoms; seizures were reported in an infant with unwitnessed exposure.

Conclusions:

  • Phoradendron flavescens exposure infrequently causes symptoms, usually mild and self-limiting.
  • Seizures represent a previously unreported adverse event associated with this plant.
  • Most accidental exposures do not require significant medical intervention.