Case Of Ergotism Research Articles

Pulselessness in an HIV Infected adult Female: A Rare Case of Ergotism

Ergotism can present with vascular, neurologic and gastrointestinal symptoms including gangrene in severe cases. In HIV, toxicity from interaction with protease inhibitors has been documented. We report case of a female who took cafergot for migraine resulting in absent peripheral pulses. She made a good recovery with steroids and pentoxyfilline

Cases of ergotism in livestock and associated ergot alkaloid concentrations in feed.

Ergot-induced disease in humans was known long before Biblical times and has been the root cause for countless human epidemics spanning from the early fourteenth century to the late sixteenth century. In contrast, many of these same ergot alkaloids have been utilized for their medicinal properties to mitigate migraine headaches and have had indications as anti-carcinogens. Although ergot alkaloids have been used for centuries by humans, basic pharmacokinetic data has not been documented for clinical disease in livestock. Consequently, a threshold dose and accurate dose-response data have yet to be established. Throughout the past several years, new detection techniques have emerged to detect these alkaloids at the parts per billion (ppb) level which has allowed for new efforts to be made with respect to determining threshold levels and making accurate clinical diagnoses in affected animals. This perspectives article provides a critical initial step for establishing a uniform interpretation of ergot toxicosis from limited existing data.

Ergotism in Norway. Part 1: The symptoms and their interpretation from the late Iron Age to the seventeenth century

Ergotism is a horrendous disease with grotesque symptoms caused by ingesting specific ergot alkaloids. Mass poisoning episodes are attributable to consumption of grain - usually rye - infected with the fungus Claviceps purpurea. By focusing on possible cases of ergotism, we re-examine Norwegian history from the sagas through to the end of the seventeenth century. Our review - not intended to be exhaustive, or ex post facto to assign medical or psychiatric labels - draws attention to the very real possibility that many remarkable medical cases may have been the result of the ingestion of highly poisonous and psychoactive food substances. Where possible we highlight explanations given at the time - often rooted in religion or demonology - to explain the disease.

Carotid ergotism. A complication of migraine therapy.

A case of ergotism with spasm of the internal carotid artery is presented. Unusual CNS symptomatology including slurring of speech, numbness, staggering gait, and dizziness were superimposed on pre-existent migraine syndrome. Angiographic findings included narrowing of the distal internal carotid artery and cross-filling. Symptoms cleared after discontinuance of ergot preparations.

Angiography in ergotism. Report of two cases and review of the literature.

Two cases of ergotism with peripheral ischemic changes, well demonstrated by angiography, are reported.These cases are compared symptomatically and angiographically to the other cases in the literature.Three angiographic findings appear to be present within the extremity arteries of patients with ergotism: (1) arterial vasospasm; (2) collateralization; and (3) thrombi formation.The vasospasm and collateralization may be reversible with adequate treatment.

Additional Case of Ergotism

Additional Case of Ergotism

Angiography in Two Cases of Ergotism

Angiography in Two Cases of Ergotism

Angiography in two cases of ergotism

(1962). Angiography in two cases of ergotism. Acta Radiologica: Vol. 57, No. 4, pp. 280-284.