A case of stomatitis caused by Arisaema serratum

Abstract

Ingestion of even small quantities of Arisaema serratum, a woodland perennial endemic to Japan, can be extremely toxic. History taking may provide a clue for diagnosis of stomatitis or other conditions related to this ingestion; however, the treatment is usually supportive therapy. Herein, we report a case of stomatitis caused by the ingestion of Arisaema serratum. A man in his 30 s presented to our department with significant oral pain and swelling after ingesting a fruit. The patient identified the fruit as Arisaema serratum from a pictorial book of flora. He was consequently diagnosed with stomatitis caused by Arisaema serratum and administered antihistamine, antiplasmin, and corticosteroids, following which, he was asymptomatic for approximately one month. Serious organ damage was not observed, and the antihistamines and antiplasmin for treating the oral symptoms appeared to be effective. In cases of accidental ingestion of toxic plants, differential diagnosis considering the clinical situation and careful treatment are required. Increasing the awareness about toxic plants is crucial.