Human plant exposures in Hungary (2012-2025): a nationwide toxicovigilance study.

INTRODUCTION Plant intoxications represent a notable proportion of exposures reported to poison control centres worldwide, although their epidemiological patterns vary across regions. In Hungary, comprehensive data on plant-related intoxications have not previously been published. This study aims to provide a nationwide analysis of human plant intoxications, focusing on demographic characteristics, plant taxa, and causes of exposure.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from the Hungarian National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy exposure reporting system. All recorded plant-related intoxication cases between 2012 and 2025 were included. Data collected included age, sex, exposure characteristics, plant taxa, and type of exposure. Severity data were available from 2015 onward. Taxonomic nomenclature was standardized.

Results

A total of 2,720 cases were recorded, of which 2,582 involved identifiable plant taxa. Children accounted for nearly 90% of cases. Most exposures were accidental (91.9%), while suicide attempts (4.3%) and recreational use (1.4%) were less frequent. Severity data (n = 1,794) showed that most cases were asymptomatic (65.9%) or mild (25.6%), with severe (1.0%) and fatal (0.2%) outcomes being rare. The most prevalent species were Convallaria majalis and Taxus baccata.

Discussion

Plant intoxications in Hungary predominantly affect children and are mainly accidental. Although most cases are mild, certain species are associated with severe outcomes. These findings support toxicovigilance and may improve prevention and clinical management.

Conclusion

Plant intoxications in Hungary predominantly affect children and are usually accidental, with ornamental plants representing the main source of exposure.