Assessment of serum creatine kinase among adolescent patients following jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) and moonflower (Datura inoxia) ingestions: a review of 11 cases

Introduction. Datura stramonium (DS) (jimsonweed) is well known for its abuse potential for hallucinogenic effects and Datura inoxia (DI) (moonflower) has been abused for similar effects. To our knowledge, only one case report describes rhabdomyolysis in association with DS or DI ingestion. Case identification and details. Patient hospital charts were retrospectively screened from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2007 to identify patients with qualifying ICD-9 codes for toxic plant ingestions. We report on 11 patient cases of DS/DI ingestions in which serum creatine kinase (CK) concentrations were monitored. These admissions occurred at our hospital over a 6-year period. Serum CK concentrations ranged from 72 to 70,230 U/L. Only three patients had serum CK concentrations greater than 1,000 U/L. One patient with a peak concentration of 70,230 U/L and a positive myoglobinuria was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis. Discussion. Based on our review of the literature and these cases, it is possible that serum CK concentrations may be elevated more frequently than previously realized. The clinical significance of this abnormal laboratory value is uncertain with the majority of patients remaining asymptomatic without any clinical evidence of rhabdomyolysis.