Clinical state resulting from use of edible oils adulterated with Argemone mexicana oil characterized by pitting edema of the extremities, especially of the lower limbs, cutaneous erythema and local tenderness.
Clinical features
Acute manifestation of bilateral pitting edema, erythema, and local tenderness along with cardiac and respiratory problems in severe cases leading to death.
Gastroenteric features:
- Watery diarrhoea and vomiting
Leakage of the protein-rich plasma component into the extracellular compartment:
- Bilaterally symmetrical pitting oedema of the lower limbs
- Marked cutaneous flush with tenderness
- Blanching of oedematous parts on pressure
- Burning sensations, itching and paresthesias
Cardiopulmonary symptoms:
- Cough
- Palpitations
- Exertional breathlessness
- Orthopnoea progressing to frank right-sided congestive cardiac failure
Renal features:
- Mild to moderate anaemia
- Hypoproteinaemia
- Mild to moderate renal azotemia
Ocular features:
- Retinal haemorrhages
- Hypersecretory glaucoma
Management
There is no specific therapy.
- Removal of the adulterated oil
- Symptomatic treatment of congestive cardiac failure and respiratory symptoms
- Antioxidants
- Multivitamins