Laryngeal edema after ingestion of an ornamental plant (Alocasia odora): serial clinical images in an elderly patient.

Abstract

Introduction: Alocasia odora contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause severe mucosal irritation and airway edema. Ingestion may lead to critical airway compromise.

Case summary: A 91-year-old woman developed oropharyngeal pain and swelling after biting into a boiled root of Alocasia odora, mistaking it for edible taro. She experienced lip and tongue swelling and was transported to the emergency department. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy showed marked bilateral arytenoid edema. She received intramuscular epinephrine, intravenous chlorphenamine maleate, famotidine, and methylprednisolone. Her symptoms gradually improved, and she was discharged on hospital day 5 without complications.

Images: Serial laryngoscopic images demonstrated the resolution of localized airway edema over 10 days.

Conclusions: This case visually documents the time course of laryngeal edema due to calcium oxalate exposure and highlights the importance of early airway assessment following toxic plant ingestion.