One of us (E. M. S.) recently reported on the hazards of contact with Hippomane mancinella L., family Euphorbiaceae.1 The common name for this poisonous tree is manzanillo; the names beach apple and shore apple are more recent ones.
It was pointed out that the departmental surgeon each year issues warnings to the military personnel stationed in the department from which the present observations are reported, relative to the dangers of this tree. Soldiers are repeatedly cautioned to avoid contact with it and to avoid the areas in which it grows.
We wish to submit a brief summary of 60 cases of dermatitis venenata caused by this tree, which we feel are of sufficient interest to be reported.
During spring maneuvers, a detachment of soldiers was given the problem of establishing a beach defense. The night was dark, and all the necessary positions and emplacements were established about midnight.