Tetrodotoxin poisoning associated with eating puffer fish transported from Japan - California, 1996
Article Abstract:
Three California chefs had a very close call when they ate small amounts of a prepared puffer fish product brought by a colleague from Japan. Within 3 to 20 minutes, all three experienced some of the classic signs of tetrodotoxin poisoning, including a tingling of the mouth and lips, dizziness, tightness in the chest and weakness. All three recovered after prompt treatment with intravenous fluids, stomach lavage and activated charcoal. The puffer fish belongs to one of the most poisonous orders of marine animals. It contains a poison called tetrodotoxin, which blocks nerve transmission. Death can occur within 24 hours, usually from paralysis of the respiratory muscles. The US prohibits the importation of puffer fish, or fugu, but the FDA allows certified fugu chefs to import the fish. However, the chef in question failed to declare the fish at customs upon arriving in the US.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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Anticholinergic poisoning associated with an herbal tea - New York City, 1994
Article Abstract:
Herbal tea that is contaminated with plants containing belladonna alkaloids may disrupt the normal functioning of the nervous system. Belladonna alkaloids are pharmacologically active compounds. During March 1994, seven New Yorkers in three families developed abnormal nervous system functioning after drinking Paraguay tea. Common symptoms included a rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, dry, flushed skin, and agitation. All patients recovered, three of whom required emergency medical care. Samples of the dried, chopped Paraguay tea leaves and stems contained the belladonna alkaloids atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. The tea leaves and stems were purchased from South American farmers and shipped to New York for packaging and sale. Investigators suspect that the Paraguay tea was contaminated with leaves from a plant that contained belladonna alkaloids.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1995
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