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Acute cyanide toxicity caused by apricot kernel ingestion

J R Suchard1, K L Wallace, R D Gerkin

  • 1Department of Medical Toxicology, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA. jsuchard@samaritan.edu

Annals of Emergency Medicine
|December 2, 1998
PubMed
Summary

Ingesting apricot kernels can cause severe cyanide poisoning, leading to coma and respiratory distress. Prompt antidotal therapy is crucial for survival, as demonstrated in this case of a woman experiencing toxicity after consuming apricot kernels.

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Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Apricot kernels contain amygdalin, a precursor to cyanide.
  • Cyanide poisoning is a rare but serious condition.
  • Dietary supplements can pose unexpected health risks.

Observation:

  • A 41-year-old woman presented with weakness and dyspnea shortly after ingesting apricot kernels.
  • The patient was comatose and hypothermic upon arrival.
  • Symptoms developed rapidly within 20 minutes of ingestion.

Findings:

  • The patient's condition was diagnosed as cyanide poisoning.
  • Prompt administration of antidotal therapy led to a rapid improvement in her condition.
  • Continuous thiosulfate infusion was required to manage persistent metabolic acidosis.

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Implications:

  • This case highlights the potential danger of consuming apricot kernels.
  • It underscores the importance of recognizing and rapidly treating cyanide poisoning.
  • Healthcare providers should be aware of cyanide toxicity from alternative medicine products.