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Cucurbit Toxins Lead to Rapid and Severe Distributive Shock

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This case report details a 47-year-old man who experienced severe distributive shock due to cucurbitacin toxicity after consuming Lagenaria siceraria in a health drink. His condition was marked by vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal hyperemia, leading to hypotension, hematochezia, and multiorgan dysfunction. The case underscores the critical need for swift diagnosis, aggressive hydration, and the importance of a comprehensive patient history to recognize the risks for cucurbitacin toxicity. It serves as a reminder for health care professionals to consider unconventional causes of shock and the urgency of appropriate early treatment.

Source: Annals of Internal Medicine Clinical Cases

DOI: 10.7326/aimcc.2023.1037

Authors: Valerie J. Renard, Kathleen Batley, Lana Wahid

Institutions: Duke University Health System, Carilion Clinic, Virginia Tech

Language: English

Topic: Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4407122278

FWCI:

Cites: 7

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Related to: 10