Veno-occlusive disease in a fetus caused by pyrrolizidine alkaloids of food origin

Fetal Diagn Ther. 2003 Jul-Aug;18(4):223-5. doi: 10.1159/000070799.

Abstract

We report the occurrence of veno-occlusive disease in a preterm neonate who was symptomatic with hepatomegaly and ascites and was delivered by caesarean section for threatening fetal asphyxia and died shortly afterwards. Post mortem examination revealed veno-occlusive disease typical for pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning. The content of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the liver could be confirmed. Analysis of a herbal mixture which was used for cooking in the family revealed high amounts of the respective alkaloids clarifying the source of the poison and the causal relationship.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Food / toxicity*
  • Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease / chemically induced*
  • Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Plant Preparations / toxicity*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids / toxicity*

Substances

  • Plant Preparations
  • Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids