Indian Journal of Critical Care Case Report

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VOLUME 2 , ISSUE 1 ( January-February, 2023 ) > List of Articles

CASE SERIES

Toxic Gastroenteritis after Bottle Gourd Ingestion: A Case Series of Seven Patients

Suvadeep Sen, Deepak Gupta

Keywords : Bitter bottle gourd, Bottle gourd juice, Cucurbitacin poisoning, Toxic enteritis

Citation Information : Sen S, Gupta D. Toxic Gastroenteritis after Bottle Gourd Ingestion: A Case Series of Seven Patients. 2023; 2 (1):25-27.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11006-0031

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 07-03-2023

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2023; The Author(s).


Abstract

Introduction: In India, bottle gourd is consumed as a juice due to various health advantages. Bottle gourd and vegetables from the same family contain trace amounts of cucurbitacins which impart a bitter taste to these vegetables. Increase in the levels of these compounds due to various reasons can lead to serious gastrointestinal side effects along with multiorgan dysfunction. Discussion: Here we present a case series of seven patients which presented to us with significant health issues after consuming bitter bottle gourd juice and the manner in which they were treated. All seven patients made remarkable recoveries. Conclusion: Though a popularly consumed vegetable throughout India for various health benefits, it could pose a serious health risk if consumed when bitter and the above issue requires extensive research and education regarding the toxicity of the substance. Prompt identification and simple resuscitation efforts can prevent significant mortality and morbidity.


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