Poisoning by parenteral administration of ricin
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32818/reccmi.a11n1a13Keywords:
ricin, castor bean, poisoning, toxicologyAbstract
Ricin is a highly toxic protein derived from Ricinus communis. Human intoxication is rare, and parenteral exposure is
associated with greater severity and mortality. We report the case of a 31-year-old patient who received parenteral
administration of castor bean extract in the abdominal and gluteal regions, developing local and systemic involvement
with suspected local superinfection. Local decontamination, hydration, empiric antibiotic therapy, and serial
surgical debridement were performed, with an adequate clinical response. A literature review identified approximately
50 reported cases; 74% were accidental. Oral exposure was the most frequent (90%), whereas parenteral exposure
accounted for about 6%, with reported mortality of up to 100%. Parenteral ricin intoxication is rare and potentially
lethal. Early recognition and surgical source control may improve outcomes.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Carlos David Rojas-Delgado, Mariuxi Cecibel Saraguro-Martínez, Josselyn Álvarez-Morquecho
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