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Abrin poisoning in an 18-month-old child
Mazin Alhamdani1, Brande Brown1, Pramod Narula1
1Department of Pediatrics, New York Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|March 11, 2015
Summary
Abrus precatorius seeds contain the deadly poison abrin. Pediatricians and parents should recognize the risk of accidental ingestion in children, which can lead to severe illness or death.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Abrin, a potent toxin from Abrus precatorius seeds, is often overlooked by physicians.
- Abrin toxicity symptoms include gastrointestinal distress, liver failure, renal failure, and cerebral edema.
- A fatal human dose of abrin is estimated to be less than 1 microgram/kg.
Observation:
- An 18-month-old boy presented with severe gastroenteritis symptoms after ingesting colorful seeds.
- The seeds were identified as Abrus precatorius, a source of the deadly poison abrin.
- The child exhibited elevated alkaline phosphatase, a finding not typically associated with abrin poisoning.
Findings:
- The case highlights the severe gastrointestinal effects of abrin poisoning in a pediatric patient.
- An isolated elevation in alkaline phosphatase was noted, presenting a diagnostic challenge.
- Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent severe morbidity and mortality.
Implications:
- Increased awareness among parents and pediatricians regarding the danger of Abrus precatorius seeds is essential.
- Children are particularly vulnerable due to the seeds' attractive appearance.
- This case underscores the importance of considering abrin poisoning in pediatric patients with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms and elevated alkaline phosphatase.