Definition

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

Alternative Names

Dumbcane; Leopard lily; Tuft root

Poisonous Ingredient

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 Treatment

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

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

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.

Expectations (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.