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Near fatal anticholinergic intoxication after routine fundoscopy

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Abstract

We describe a case of severe anticholinergic intoxication following the topical instillation of tropicamide-containing eyedrops. Tropicamide is a short-acting atropine-like derivative and has been regarded as an effective and safe mydriatic. Half an hour after routine fundoscopy, a 62-year-old man experienced two generalized seizures with respiratory arrest and required intubation and mechanical ventilation. The patient was treated with physostigmine and made a full recovery.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Internal Medicine, Intensive Care Unit, Karl Franzens University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, A-8036, Graz, Austria

    G. A. Brunner, S. Fleck, T. R. Pieber, A. Lueger, P. Kaufmann, K. H. Smolle, H. Brussee & G. J. Krejs

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  1. G. A. Brunner
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  2. S. Fleck
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  3. T. R. Pieber
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  4. A. Lueger
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  5. P. Kaufmann
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  6. K. H. Smolle
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  7. H. Brussee
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  8. G. J. Krejs
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Brunner, G.A., Fleck, S., Pieber, T.R. et al. Near fatal anticholinergic intoxication after routine fundoscopy. Intensive Care Med 24, 730–731 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1007/s001340050652

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s001340050652

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