Clinical profile of Jatropha Curcas poisoning in children
Abstract
Introduction: Jatropha curcas (Physic nut; Hindi – Ratanjot, Bagranda, Jungle Erandi) is a common plant found all over the world. Accidental poisoning is common in children. This study aimed to describe the clinical profile and outcome of children admitted for acute Jatropha poisoning at a tertiary care teaching hospital from 2004 -2013.
Materials and methods: This is a 10 year retrospective descriptive study. Hospital charts of children (ages 1 year to 18 years or less) admitted in the pediatric unit from Jan 2004 to Dec 2013 was reviewed. Total of 169 cases of Jatropha curcas poisoning were reported. Clinical profile and outcome were described. Mean, summation, percentage and frequency distribution were used where applicable.
Results: Total 169 cases were evaluated. Acute Jatropha poisoning was the commonest cause of poisoning in children constituting 31% of poisoning cases. Vomiting was the most common symptom present in all children followed by abdominal pain (58%), weakness (21%), dehydration (13%) and diarrhea (11%).Hypovolemia shock was documented in 6 children with acute Jatropha poisoning. All children required IV fluids, IV anti emetics and ORS. 4 % cases required IV fluid resuscitation & oxygen supplementation due to hypovolemia shock.
Conclusion: Most children who ingest Jatropha curcas seeds develop mild gastrointestinal symptoms but life threatening complications like hypovolemia shock can occur. Health care providers must recognize, assess and initiate appropriate management promptly to minimize the serious consequences that could endanger the lives of the patients.
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References
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