Green tobacco sickness.

Green tobacco sickness (GTS) is an occupational illness that causes significant morbidity in tobacco harvesters. Physicians need to be aware of GTS and its differential diagnosis, especially when patients come to emergency rooms. Dermal absorption of nicotine is reported to be the cause of GTS. No fatalities have been reported, and treatment is supportive. Prevention, by covering exposed skin, seems to be the most effective way of dealing with GTS.