Ingestion of yam bean seeds can result in an encephalopathy.
Plant Genus: Pachyrhizus
Toxic parts of the plant: mature pods, seeds and filage
Toxin: rotenone
Ingestion of a large number of yam bean seeds is usually associated with vomiting, which limits absorption. Most human toxicity may arise from chronic exposure to low levels.
Type of encephalopathy: toxic leukoencephalopathy
The clinical appearance may mimic cyanide poisoning with altered mental status. The patient may show a high anion gap metabolic acidosis with elevated serum lactate concentration.
Long-term exposure can result in Parkinson's syndrome.
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