%0 Journal Article
%T Atropa belladonna Poisoning in Children: A Case Report and Environmental Toxicology Perspective
%A Arlinda Maloku
%A Aferdita Mustafa
%A Abdurrahim Gerguri
%J World Journal of Environmental Biosciences
%@ 2277-8047
%D 2025
%V 14
%N 4
%R 10.51847/ydt3E6DrJL
%P 14-18
%X Atropa belladonna, commonly known as deadly nightshade, is a highly toxic plant found across Europe and other temperate regions. Its tropane alkaloids—atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine—pose significant risks, particularly to children. Belladonna ranks among the most poisonous plants in Europe and other parts of the world. Children aged 1–5 are especially vulnerable due to their natural curiosity and tendency to explore their environment orally. The berries of Atropa belladonna resemble edible fruits such as blueberries or blackcurrants, making accidental ingestion a common route of poisoning. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on history and symptomatology. Laboratory confirmation is rarely available in acute settings. This article presents a case report of two pediatric patients who suffered acute poisoning after ingesting belladonna berries, highlighting the clinical presentation, treatment challenges, and broader environmental health implications. The case underscores the need for public awareness, toxic plant control, and improved access to antidotes in resource-limited settings.
%U https://environmentaljournals.org/article/atropa-belladonna-poisoning-in-children-a-case-report-and-environmental-toxicology-perspective-ncbpylw6xg9ipyb