Epidemic dropsy in Andhra Pradesh due to contaminated ghee.

An outbreak of epidemic dropsy in Andhra Pradesh was studied during August to September 1987. Thirty cases from 6 families were identified and examined. Ghee and one oil sample were found to be contaminated with the toxic compound sanguinarine. The affected families had purchased ghee from one vendor. The epidemic ended after alerting the villagers of the contaminated ghee, and stopping its further use.