Evidence map›Paper›PMID 41088384›Full record

ArticleJournal of medical case reports2025

Colocynth induced multiorgan toxicity: a case report.

Natan Muluberhan Alemseged, Mubarak Ahmed Ibrahim, Mohamed Ahmed Sheikabdullahi

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Article in Journal of medical case reports, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.

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4 · The record

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5 · Who and what money

Authors and funding

3 authors.

Natan Muluberhan AlemsegedDepartment of Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, College of Health and Science, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia. natanxy@gmail.com.ORCID http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1882-9469
Mubarak Ahmed IbrahimEmergency Department, Hargeisa Group Hospital, Hargeisa, Somalia.
Mohamed Ahmed SheikabdullahiEmergency Department, Hargeisa Group Hospital, Hargeisa, Somalia.

Funding

No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.

6 · The paper itself

Abstract

backgroundCitrullus colocynthis, a plant traditionally used for its purgative properties, is known for its severe toxicity when consumed in excessive amounts. This case highlights the multiorgan toxicity of colocynth and underscores the need for increased public awareness to prevent such poisoning. The rapid onset of symptoms, absence of infectious causes, and prompt recovery with supportive care strongly support the diagnosis of colocynth-induced toxicity. It is the first reported case of colocynth poisoning from Eastern Africa. Given its widespread use in herbal medicine, this study raises awareness about its potential toxicity and contributes valuable clinical insights for managing similar cases in the future. CASE PRESENTATION: A 64-year-old Black male Somali of Cushitic ethnicity ingested colocynth fruit to relieve constipation. Within 2 hours, he developed profuse bloody diarrhea, hematemesis, and altered consciousness. On admission, he presented with hypotension, sinus tachycardia, leukocytosis, acute kidney injury, and elevated liver enzymes. Diagnostic workup ruled out infections and other causes of colitis. Management included aggressive fluid resuscitation, antibiotics, and supportive care, leading to full recovery within 5 days.

conclusionsThis case highlights the multiorgan toxicity of colocynth, including gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal, and cardiovascular effects. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the toxic potential of colocynth and the need for public education to prevent similar incidents. The rapid onset of symptoms and prompt recovery with supportive care underscore the clinical significance of this case.

Indexed as

Citrullus colocynthisMultiple Organ FailureAcute Kidney InjuryConstipationDiarrheaHumansHypotensionMaleMiddle AgedTreatment OutcomeAcute kidney injuryCitrullus colocynthisColocynth poisoningGastrointestinal toxicityHepatotoxicitySomalia

Identifiers

PMID41088384
PMCPMC12522648

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