A Case of Veratrum album Intoxication Presenting with Severe Circulatory Symptoms

A 62-year-old woman was transferred to our hospital complaining of nausea, vomiting and acute abdominal pain four hours after the ingestion of wild grass. Her initial systolic blood pressure was 60mmHg and her heart rate was 40beats/min. Her vital signs improved following the administration of atropine sulfate and dopamine. Since the species of the ingested plant was not known at the time of admission, hemoperfusion and hemodialysis appeared to be the best methods of treatment. On the next day, her vital signs stabilized and her complaints were alleviated. The plant was later revealed to be Veratrum album. Veratrum album is a toxic wild plant that is frequently encountered in Japan and is often mistaken for Hosta sieboldiana. Since acute intoxication by veratrum alkaloids may cause severe parasympathetic symptoms, including profound hypotension and bradycardia, early recognition and treatment are required.