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Upper limb ischemia induced by chronic licorice ingestion.
P Lozano1, D Flores, S Martínez
1Department of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, Son Dureta Hospital, Ciutat de Mallorca, Baleric Islands, Spain. cule@arrakis.es
The Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery
|October 29, 2000
Summary
A young woman experienced an acute embolic episode due to severe hypokalemia from long-term licorice ingestion. Treatment involved surgery and potassium supplements, successfully resolving this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Licorice ingestion is a known cause of hypertension and hypokalemia.
- Chronic hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiovascular complications.
- Embolic events can occur secondary to various underlying conditions.
Observation:
- A young woman presented with an acute embolic episode affecting her right upper limb.
- She had a documented history of over ten years of continuous licorice ingestion.
- Blood tests revealed severe hypokalemia with associated electrocardiogram (EKG) changes.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram identified mild mitral valve prolapse.
Findings:
- The patient underwent an axillo-brachial thromboembolectomy, restoring distal pulses.
- Severe hypokalemia, linked to licorice consumption, was identified as the likely cause of the embolic event.
- Mild mitral valve prolapse was an incidental finding.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe cardiovascular complications, including embolic events, from chronic licorice ingestion.
- Early recognition of hypokalemia and its underlying cause is crucial for preventing life-threatening outcomes.
- A multidisciplinary approach combining surgical intervention and electrolyte correction can effectively manage such rare presentations.