A case of respiratory failure due to poison hemlock poisoning presented to an emergency department

Abstract

Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) is one of the most poisonous plants in the world. Accidental ingestion of the plant could result in central nervous system depression, respiratory failure and even death. Airway and breathing management followed by fluid resuscitation is the mainstay of treatment. Poison hemlock poisoning is an important differential diagnosis for patients with impaired consciousness and respiratory failure after plant ingestion in areas of natural habitat for the plant. Early and proper diagnosis is vital for patients with poison hemlock poisoning. In this report, we present a case of life-threatening poisoning due to taking the poison hemlock mistaken for Helichrysum arenarium. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2011;18: 235-238)