Noxious toads and frogs of South Africa

The major defence mechanism in frogs in via the secretion of toxins from their skin. In humans, intoxication may occur when part of the amphibian integument is ingested, as in the form of herbal medicines. Two groups of South African frogs have skin secretions that are potentially lethal to humans and animals. Toads (Bufo and Schismaderma species), the amphibians with which 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 poisoned patient are discussed.