Grayanotoxin poisoning from Rhododendron simsii in an infant |
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| Authors: | W T Poon C H Ho K L Yip C K Lai K L Cheung Rita Y T Sung Albert Y W Chan Tony W L Mak |
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| Affiliation: | Hospital Authority Toxicology Reference Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Laichikok, Hong Kong. |
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| Abstract: | We report a case of severe poisoning in a 57-day-old infant who presented with vomiting, convulsions, and shock after ingesting a bottle of milk containing a decoction of Rhododendron simsii. The grandmother collected this toxic plant from a cultivated area, believing it was good for the airways. Grayanotoxin was detected in both the urine and plant specimens. The infant made a good recovery after requiring ventilatory support for 2 days. Rhododendron is a common gardening shrub in Hong Kong. Some Rhododendron species are poisonous and contain grayanotoxin. Intentional or accidental ingestion of toxic plants can be severe or even life-threatening. It is therefore essential that clinicians be familiar with local toxic plant species. |
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