DISTRIBUTION:
Occuring at medium to low altitudes in various types of deciduous woodland, most frequently on rocky koppies and often associated with termite mounds.
TOXIC PRINCIPLE:
Many of the species of the Euphorbiaceae (not all) contain a highly irritant latex.
SYSTEMS AFFECTED:
Skin and appendages.
CLINICAL SIGNS:
A drop of latex in the eye can lead to severe inflammation and temporary or permanent blindness. When the skin comes into contact with the latex, it results in vesicles and ulcers.
TREATMENT:
Affected skin should be gently washed to remove as much as possible of the latex. Corticosteroid ointments could be applied.
