Dieffenbachia

Definition

This article describes poisoning caused by eating the Dieffenbachia plant leaf.

Alternative Names

Dumbcane; Leopard lily; Tuft root

Poisonous Ingredient

oxalic acid
asparagine,
a protein found in this plant

Symptoms

The possible symptoms include:

Burning in mouth or throat
Swelling in mouth or tongue
Hoarse voice
Eye pain
Corneal abrasion
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea

Home Care

Wipe out the mouth with a cold, wet cloth. Give milk to drink.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

The patient's age, weight, and condition
The parts of the plant that were eaten
The time it was swallowed
The amount swallowed

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. Bring the plant with you to the emergency room for identification.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The symptoms will be treated.

Outlook (Prognosis)

These plants may cause swelling severe enough to block the airway, but this is very rare.

Review Date: 2/13/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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