[Intoxication due to apricot pits]

Abstract

Background: Apricot seeds are recommended online for their alleged cancer-fighting and energy-boosting properties. However, they contain high levels of cyanogenic glycosides. Ingesting just a few apricot pits (1-3) can result in severe symptoms and fatalities have been reported after consuming more than 20 pits.

Case description: A 43-year-old man arrived at the Emergency Department after consuming apricot seeds. He had eaten them in the hope of gaining energy. Shortly after consuming the patient experienced palpitations, dizziness, nausea, and ataxia. He had a tachycardia and was acidotic on evaluation. The patient was promptly treated, including the administration of hydroxocobalamin and gastric lavage, and he eventually stabilized.

Conclusion: Cyanogenic glycosides are commonly found in apricot seeds and can cause life-threatening intoxication. Treatment should be prompt and involves supportive therapy, gastric emptying (<2 hours) and administration of antidotes (Cyanokit, sodium thiosulfate).