NEET PG High-Yield: Lathyrism
Lathyrism is a classical nutritional toxicology topic in SPM, caused by the chronic consumption of the pulse Lathyrus sativus (Khesari dal).
Core Concepts
| Parameter | Key Detail |
|---|---|
| Causative Agent | BOAA (Beta-N-Oxalylamino-L-alanine) is a neurotoxin. |
| Condition Type | Spastic paraparesis (involving lower limbs). |
| Risk Factors | Dietary reliance on Khesari dal, especially during famines or extreme poverty. |
High-Yield NEET PG Pearls:
- Clinical Presentation: Upper motor neuron lesion symptoms; stiffness and weakness of lower limbs, “scissor gait.”
- Prevalence: Historically associated with Central India.
- Prevention: Parboiling (steeping/boiling) the pulse significantly reduces the toxin content, as BOAA is water-soluble.
- Classification: It is a form of epidemic neurotoxicology.