noun
- a disease of the nervous system caused by eating seeds of certain legumes, especially grass peas, characterized by paralysis of the legs
Usage: medical
Examples
- Lathyrism was common in regions where people relied heavily on grass peas during famines.
- The neurological condition known as lathyrism affects the spinal cord.
- Researchers studied the connection between lathyrism and consumption of Lathyrus sativus.
- Prevention of lathyrism involves limiting intake of certain legume seeds.
- Historical records show outbreaks of lathyrism during periods of food scarcity.
- The toxic compound in grass peas can lead to lathyrism if consumed regularly.