False-positive results by the platelia Aspergillus galactomannan antigen test for patients treated with amoxicillin-clavulanate.

The Aspergillus galactomannan test is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis. We hereby report a high rate of false-positive results by the Platelia Aspergillus galactomannan antigen test (Bio-Rad Laboratories) for patients treated with amoxicillin-clavulanate.

An unusual poisoning with the unusual pesticide amitraz.

Amitraz, 1,5 di-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-3-methyl-1,3,5-triaza-penta-1,4-diene, a formamidine pesticide, is used worldwide. It causes side-effects in animals that resemble those caused by pure alpha 2-adrenergic agonist drugs such as clonidine. Data on poisonings in humans are scanty. We report on a case of human poisoning with amitraz with typical signs of alpha 2-adrenoreceptor stimulation.

Treatment of severe thallium intoxication.

CASE REPORT: We report a successfully treated case of severe thallium intoxication. In spite of very high serum thallium (5,240 micrograms/L), symptomatology was minor and recovery complete. Prussian Blue was administered, diuresis was enhanced by intravenous fluids and a prolonged hemodialysis was started early. High blood flows (300 mL/min) and intravenous potassium chloride supplements, to mobilize thallium from the tissues, resulted in good clearances (96 to 150 mL/min). In order to prevent the well known complications, we recommend aggressive treatment of severe thallium intoxication.