Near fatal anticholinergic intoxication after routine fundoscopy.

Brunner, G A; Fleck, S; Pieber, T R; Lueger, A; Kaufmann, P; Smolle, K H; Brussee, H; Krejs, G J · Intensive Care Med · 1998

case_report · Level V

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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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