poisoning due to calcium oxalate needle crystals in Japan.

To elucidate the actual circumstances of damage caused by Japanese () . We investigated cases in Japan from our own hospital in the eastern part of Shizuoka Prefecture as well as published reports. is found in western Japan, and plants of the genus are cultivated often. is frequently associated with food poisoning because its aboveground parts resemble those of Satoimo (). Moreover, contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause poisoning symptoms, such as oral pain, nausea, vomiting, and laryngeal edema, resulting in near asphyxia, diarrhea following shock, and skin dermatitis. Calcium oxalate crystals are abundant in family plants, and cases of health damage owing to the accidental ingestion of plants have been reported worldwide. Due to the strong irritation felt in the mouth upon contact with the plant, it is advisable to immediately spit out the plant and rinse the mouth. In addition to drug administration, ensuring a secure airway may be necessary if there is a risk of asphyxiation.