ACCIDENTAL DATURA POISONING IN A CHILD, A CASE REPORT FROM CENTRAL NEPAL

Datura stramonium is a common plant found all over Nepal. It contains alkaloids like atropine, hyoscyamine and scopolamine which can produce severe anti-cholinergic effects upon intoxication. It is mostly consumed during Mahashivaratri as a means of recreation and sacred blessing from lord Shiva. We would like to present a case of accidental poisoning in children by consuming sacred food mixed with D. stramonium during Mahashivaratri. Careful history taking and physical examination is important for early diagnosis. Presence of eye witness and early presentation to hospital contributes to favorable outcome. It may be more beneficial if we become more cautious and follow safety measures while performing cultural rituals and celebrating festivals. Also, we need to be aware of the possible fatal complications of Datura poisoning.