[Psychosocial conditions of psychotropic drug poisoning of patients treated in the Gdansk Toxicology Center]. / Psychospoleczne uwarunkowania zatruc lekami psychotropowymi u chorych leczonych w Gdanskim Osrodku Toksykologicznym.

The purpose of the study was in analysis of both causes and social conditioning leading to attempts of self-intoxications by the use of psychotropic drugs. The study included 234 patients treated in the Gdansk Toxicological Center during years 1982-1987. In a majority, the intoxications referred to young subjects up to 30 year of age, more frequently women than men. Only 10% of subjects studied have had university education. The alcohol or drug dependence and various psychiatric disturbances has been noted in a majority of cases studied. The lack of real suicidal determination was characteristic pattern of group observed.

Acute silver poisoning through inhalation.

The paper presented a case of acute occupational poisoning with silver vapours. The course of the ailment was very serious. The clinical picture corresponded to the syndrome of the "shock lung"--with extreme respiratory insufficiency. The treatment included administration of steroids, heparin, antibiotics and controlled respiration with a positive endexpiratory pressure (PEEP). The patient was completely cured and fully regained physical fitness. Our observation seems to shake the hitherto predominant view of non-toxicity of metallic silver or its vapours.