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Lethal liquorice lollies (liquorice abuse causing pseudohyperaldosteronism)
B J Flores-Robles1, A R Hurtarte Sandoval, J D Penate Dardon
1Rheumatology Service, Puerta de Hierro Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
BMJ Case Reports
|September 21, 2013
Summary
This case highlights liquorice poisoning, a rare cause of hypertension and hypokalaemia. Promptly stopping liquorice consumption and providing potassium supplements led to a full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Mineralocorticoid excess can manifest with hypertension, edema, and hypokalemia.
- Glycyrrhizic acid in liquorice mimics aldosterone, leading to these symptoms.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman presented with symptoms of mineralocorticoid excess.
- Initial investigations ruled out common endocrine and renal causes.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms were linked to excessive consumption of raw liquorice.
- Low aldosterone and plasma renin activity confirmed liquorice-induced mineralocorticoid excess.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering liquorice toxicity in unexplained hypertension and hypokalemia.
- Emphasizes thorough patient history, including herbal product intake, for accurate diagnosis.
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