Dieffenbachia plant poisoning cases and effects on human health

Abstract

Many plants, such as Dieffenbachia Schott, which are poisonous and can be life threatening, are present in the habitats of people. Dieffenbachia is widely used for ornamental purposes in living quarters, but it is a plant species that can harm human health as a result of contact, chewing or ingestion. The aim of this work is to attract the attention of researchers to the role of the Dieffenbachia plant, often used for ornamental purposes in homes, especially in the case of home accidents that children are exposed to and the likelihood of abuse. For this reason, Dieffenbachia poisoning cases in the literature have been discussed in the context of resources. A total of 7 cases were studied, including three cases of 1-3 years of age, 3 cases of 7-12 years and a case of adult age of 69, obtained by investigating the literature. Dieffenbachia plant can cause vital signs, such as airway obstruction and respiratory failure, as well as mild skin reactions, depending on the type of contact and amount of exposure. Care should be taken and caution should be exercised on the use of plants such as Dieffenbachia and similar plants in houses, playgrounds and other green area regulations.

Dieffenbachia-Induced Transient Crystalline Keratopathy: A Case Report and Review of Previously Reported Cases

“…Dieffenbachia is an ornamental plant found widely in home gardens or plantations. It belongs to the family Araceae and grows naturally in tropical regions [2]. The plant has a straight stem and alternate leaves containing white spots and flecks.…”

“…The plant has a straight stem and alternate leaves containing white spots and flecks. The active ingredients in the plant sap are calcium oxalate and Lasparaginase [2][3][4]6]. The calcium oxalate crystals are the component that promotes irritation and inflammation.…”

“…The signs of ocular injury include conjunctival chemosis, corneal abrasion, keratoconjunctivitis, and the formation of fine blue crystals in the stroma. Ocular symptoms usually develop in 5-18 hours [2][3][4]. The main presentations after ocular contact with Dieffenbachia plant sap are serious pain, blepharospasm, photophobia, lacrimation, and blurring of vision.…”

To report a case of crystalline keratopathy induced by Dieffenbachia plant sap and literature review

“… 1 The toxic mechanism of Dieffenbachia species could not be fully explained by 2020, although it has been researched since 1960. 2 The most commonly accused toxic agent is calcium oxalate crystals called ‘raphides,’ which are abundant and intensely found in the plant's structure. Many agents, such as a proteolytic enzyme called ‘dumbcain’, cyanogenic glycoside, asparagine, and protoanemoni, have been found to have associated toxigenicity on smooth muscle contraction and soft tissue edema.…”

An Unusual Cause of Upper Airway Obstruction: A Case Report

“…It is known as the "crying flower" by locals and can be poisonous. The colored leaves, in particular, are appealing to children [3].…”