Poisoning with plants and mushrooms in Sri Lanka: a retrospective hospital based study
Fernando, R.; Fernando, D.N.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology 32(6): 579-581
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0145-6296 PMID: 2264272 Document Number: 348071
A retrospective hospital-based study in Sri Lanka showed that of 4556 cases of poisoning, 2.5% were caused by plants and mushrooms. Gloriosa superba (44%) and Ricinus communis (24%) were the most common plants responsible for poisoning; 39% of the victims were <15 yrs old. Mushrooms caused 12% of the poisonings. Gastric lavage and intravenous fluids were the most common therapeutic measures used. There were 8 deaths, all due to G. superba.