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[Poisoning by Atractylis gummifera L. Morocco poison control center data]

H Hami1, A Soulaymani, S Skalli

  • 1Laboratoire de Génétique et de Biométrie, Faculté des Sciences, Université Ibn-Tofail, Kénitra, Maroc. hind212@yahoo.fr

Bulletin De La Societe De Pathologie Exotique (1990)
|January 19, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Glue thistle (Atractylis gummifera L.) poisoning is a severe threat in Morocco, particularly affecting children. A retrospective study found a high fatality rate among hospitalized patients, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Public Health
  • Ethnobotany

Context:

  • Atractylis gummifera L. (glue thistle) is a plant with a history of traditional use but also known toxicity.
  • Morocco faces challenges with plant-induced poisonings due to its rich biodiversity and traditional practices.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate the epidemiological characteristics and clinical severity of Atractylis gummifera L. poisoning in Morocco.
  • To determine the incidence, affected demographics, and mortality associated with glue thistle poisoning.

Summary:

  • A retrospective study analyzed 240 hospitalizations for glue thistle poisoning in Morocco between 1981 and 2004.
  • Children under 16 accounted for 72% of cases.
  • A high intrahospital lethality was observed, with 54% of known outcome cases resulting in death (98 out of 182 patients).

Impact:

  • Highlights the significant public health risk posed by Atractylis gummifera L. poisoning, especially in vulnerable populations.
  • Underscores the urgent need for public awareness campaigns and preventative measures against accidental ingestion of toxic plants.
  • Provides crucial data for informing clinical management and public health strategies in regions where glue thistle is prevalent.

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