An unusual manifestation of Abrus precatorius poisoning: A report of two cases

Abstract

Abrus precatorius seeds are highly toxic and are often ingested as a means of suicide in India. Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis with erosions, hemolysis, acute renal damage, hepatotoxicity with elevated liver enzymes, and seizures are common manifestations of toxicity. We report two cases of Abrus precatorius poisoning with raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and papilledema that have not been described earlier in literature. One patient recovered completely with conservative management to lower raised ICP while the other patient expired before effective treatment could be institutedd. The cases are being reported to propose the need for routine fundus examination and brain imaging in severe abrus poisoning with CNS toxicity, as early institution of treatment for cerebral edema measures may be life saving.

Keywords :

• Abrus precatorius
• Papilledema
• Altered sensorium
• Seizures