Compendium of Major Toxin Groups

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Mushroom Poisoning and the Laboratory's Role in Monitoring Patients. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

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Compendium of Major Toxin Groups

Toxin GroupPossible Symptoms Minimum Potential Treatment
Group 1Abdominal pains, diarrhea, vomiting, thirst, anuria, hepatic & renal failure, encephalopathy Vomiting, lavage or catharsis, administration of penicillin, milk thistle, Legalon
Group 1-ANausea, vomiting, lethargy, polyuria, headache, thirst, shivering, kidney failure Emesis, lavage, catharsis
Group 2
Apparent intoxication, nausea, vomiting Treatment generally unnecessary
Group 3Headache, abdominal distress, diarrhea, vomiting, hepatic necrosis, convulsions, hemolysis, renal failure Benzodiazepines or pyridoxine, for severe toxicity: folic acid, monitored for the destruction of skeletal muscle, methemoglobinemia, and hemolysis
Group 4Sweating, excessive salivation, bronchorrhea, shortness of breath, tears, blurred vision, diarrhea, cramps, vomiting, polyurea Most patients can be treated without medication, recovery usually within 6-24 hours
Group 5After alcohol use: vomiting, headache, dizziness, weakness, apprehension, confusion, tachycardia, dyspnea Emesis, lavage, activated charcoal, beta-blocker may be useful in tachycardia
Group 6Euphoria, hallucinations Removal of toxin not necessary, therapy directed to reassurance, if hyperthermia present cooling blankets or sponge bath, NEVER salicylates