Plant Poisoning from Oxalates Clinical Presentation

Updated: Feb 19, 2020
  • Author: Jason F Kearney, MD, MBA; Chief Editor: Sage W Wiener, MD  more...
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Presentation

History and Physical Examination

Clinical manifestations, if they develop, occur rapidly and may include the following:

  • Keratoconjunctivitis and corneal abrasions after contact with plant material [8]
  • Edema, erythema, bullae, and inflammation of mouth and oral mucosa after contact; esophagitis
  • Slurred or unintelligible speech
  • Laryngeal edema (with sufficient contact)
  • Superficial necrosis developing days after initial contact
  • Local skin erythema and/or edema (typical of a contact dermatitis) due to contact with plant sap or juices [9]