Ricin

Question 1

What is ricin derived from?

Answer 1

Ricin is derived from the mash left from the castor bean

Castor beans are known for their toxic properties.

Question 2

How lethal is ricin compared to VX?

Answer 2

Ricin is five times more lethal than VX

VX is a potent nerve agent.

Question 3

What are the potential effects of ricin exposure?

Answer 3

Pulmonary edema and respiratory and circulatory failure leading to death

The severity of symptoms depends on the route of exposure.

Question 4

What is the likely fatal dose of ricin for an adult?

Answer 4

0.5 to 3 mg

Ingestion of one seed can likely kill a child.

Question 5

Which part of the castor bean is most toxic?

Answer 5

The seeds

All parts of the castor bean are poisonous.

Question 6

What symptoms can occur from castor bean ingestion?

Answer 6

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, severe diarrhea, vascular collapse, and potential death

Symptoms typically appear within a few hours after ingestion.

Question 7

What is the least toxic route of exposure for ricin?

Answer 7

Oral route

Poor absorption and rapid vomiting reduce toxicity.

Question 8

What are the signs and symptoms of ricin ingestion?

Answer 8

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Severe abdominal cramping
• Dehydration
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Necrosis of the liver, spleen, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract

Symptoms appear 4 to 8 hours after exposure.

Question 9

What symptoms occur following ricin inhalation?

Answer 9

• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea
• Local irritation of eyes, nose, and throat
• Profuse sweating
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nonproductive cough
• Chest pain
• Dyspnea
• Pulmonary edema
• Severe lung inflammation
• Cyanosis
• Seizures
• Respiratory failure

Symptoms also appear 4 to 8 hours after inhalation.

Question 10

What is the recommended treatment for ricin exposure?

Answer 10

Respiratory support and cardiovascular support as needed

ALS support and rapid transport to the ED are crucial for early intubation and ventilation.

Question 11

Fill in the blank: Ingestion of ricin causes local hemorrhage and necrosis of the _______.

Answer 11

liver, spleen, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract

Question 12

True or False: Symptoms of ricin inhalation include pulmonary edema.

Answer 12

True

Question 13

What kind of medical support is essential for dehydration caused by ricin exposure?

Answer 13

Intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement

This is essential due to the profound vomiting and diarrhea.