Pacing and clinical electrophysiology : PACE
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Pacing Clin Electrophysiol · Apr 2002
Case ReportsIntoxication with taxus baccata: cardiac arrhythmias following yew leaves ingestion.
The use of yew leaves (Taxus Baccata) as a means of deliberate self-harm is infrequent. The potent effect of the toxin is primarily cardiac and results in rhythm alterations and ultimately ventricular fibrillation. ⋯ This case describes a 43-year-old women who attempted suicide by ingesting the leaves of Taxus Baccata. We discuss the effects and the difficulty of treatment associated with yew leaf poisoning.