Affiliation:
1. Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Namazi Teaching Hospital Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Shiraz Iran
2. Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Namazi Teaching Hospital, Abu Ali Sina Center for Medicine & Organ Transplant Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Shiraz Iran
3. Student Research Committee Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Shiraz Iran
4. College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Western New England University Springfield Massachusetts USA
Abstract
Key Clinical MessageAreca nut (AN) is an addictive substance widely used in different world regions. There are several side effects associated with the use of AN, which have already been reported. However, the reports on hepatotoxicity of AN are sporadic and non‐conclusive. In the present case report, we investigated the hepatotoxicity of AN in a four‐year‐old Iranian girl who was transferred to our medical center with abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and other symptoms such as hematuria, decreased mental status, multiple seizure episodes. After a comprehensive evaluation, it was concluded that these signs and symptoms were all attributed to AN consumption, which was given by her mother to control diarrhea. Eventually, the patient medical conditions were managed successfully, and she survived by intense medical care. In conclusion, we suggest AN should be considered a potential hepatotoxic agent.
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