Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026
11:14
Rapid High-throughput Species Identification of Botanical Material Using Direct Analysis in Real Time High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Published on: October 2, 2016
Jatropha curcas-poisoning
M L Kulkarni1, H Sreekar1, K S Keshavamurthy1
1Department of Pediatrics, Jagadguru Jayadeva Murugarajendra Medical College, 2373, M.C.C. 'A' Block, 577 004, Davangere, Karnataka, India.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|April 6, 2017
Summary
Jatropha curcas seed poisoning is common in Indian children, primarily causing gastrointestinal issues. While serious outcomes are rare, this plant
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Ethnobotany
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Jatropha curcas is a widespread plant in India, particularly the southern regions.
- Accidental Jatropha curcas seed poisoning is a notable concern among children in these areas.
- Standard medical literature infrequently details Jatropha curcas poisoning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the clinical significance of Jatropha curcas seed poisoning in children.
- To describe the predominant symptoms and outcomes associated with Jatropha curcas seed ingestion.
- To increase awareness of this poisoning among healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical cases and available literature on Jatropha curcas poisoning.
- Analysis of epidemiological data related to Jatropha curcas exposures.
- Clinical observation of gastrointestinal manifestations.
Main Results:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms are the most frequent clinical presentation following Jatropha curcas seed ingestion.
- Accidental poisoning predominantly affects children.
- Fatal outcomes from Jatropha curcas seed poisoning are uncommon.
Conclusions:
- Jatropha curcas seed poisoning, primarily manifesting with gastrointestinal distress, is a significant pediatric concern in India.
- Despite its prevalence, detailed information in standard texts is limited, necessitating greater clinical awareness.
- The generally non-fatal nature of this poisoning should not detract from prompt recognition and supportive management.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison
In cases of acute poisoning, the primary objective is to prevent further absorption of the toxic substance into the body. Immediate interventions using various decontamination techniques targeting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can achieve this. Decontamination is crucial to prevent poison from entering the systemic circulation, which involves washing affected areas with water and mild soap and removing contaminated clothing. Once external decontamination is done, attention must be turned to...
01:26Anticholinesterase Agents: Poisoning and Treatment
Anticholinesterases, also known as cholinesterase inhibitors, work by blocking the breakdown of acetylcholine, leading to its accumulation in the synaptic cleft. This accumulation indirectly enhances both muscarinic and nicotinic actions. These agents are classified as reversible or irreversible based on their mechanism of action.
Irreversible agents form a strong bond with the cholinesterase enzyme, making it inactive. The breakdown of the phosphorylated enzyme is slower than the...
Irreversible agents form a strong bond with the cholinesterase enzyme, making it inactive. The breakdown of the phosphorylated enzyme is slower than the...
01:00Drug Toxicity: Overview
Drug toxicity quantifies the harm a compound causes to an organism, varying by dose and potentially impacting whole systems or specific organs like the liver. Toxic reactions may arise from venomous insect or spider bites, with effects ranging from mild symptoms to severe outcomes such as brain damage or death. Common forms of acute poisoning include ethanol intoxication and overdose of pain or fever medications, with substances like GHB and heroin being particularly lethal at doses close to...
01:24Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) are potential complications that arise during pharmacotherapy, influenced by multiple risk factors. Age plays a significant role; both neonates and the elderly are at heightened risk due to their respective immature and diminished metabolic and elimination processes. Gender also impacts ADRs, with females experiencing a 1.5 to 1.7-fold greater risk than males, which may be linked to pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and hormonal differences. Notably, neonates, the...
01:26Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Pharmaceutical poisoning can occur through various channels, impacting an estimated 2 million hospitalized patients in the U.S. annually with serious adverse drug responses. These scenarios encompass both therapeutic uses, such as drug toxicity, where even standard dosages can lead to severe central nervous system depression, and non-therapeutic exposures, including accidental ingestion by children, and environmental and occupational exposures.Unintentional poisonings often involve exploratory...
01:26Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies
Treatment strategies for poisoning are a critical aspect of emergency medicine, focusing on preventing the absorption of toxins and enhancing their elimination. When a poisoning incident occurs, the first response is to halt exposure and decontaminate the patient, particularly through gastrointestinal (GI) methods if the poison was ingested.Gastrointestinal Decontamination Techniques:Activated charcoal is the cornerstone of GI decontamination. It works through adsorption, binding the toxin to...