Acidosis
Coma
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycins
Vomiting

Ackee Fruit Toxicity

The ackee (Blighia sapida) is a tropical fruit native to West Africa and widely cultivated in the Caribbean. Ingestion of unripe B. sapida may precipitate the toxic metabolic syndrome termed “Jamaican vomiting sickness,” a condition driven by hypoglycin-mediated inhibition of mitochondrial -oxidation. This enzymatic blockade depletes hepatic glycogen stores and suppresses gluconeogenesis, producing abrupt and profound hypoglycemia with associated metabolic acidosis. Early manifestations commonly involve sudden, repetitive vomiting, abdominal discomfort, lethargy, and progressive alteration in mental status. Advanced toxicity may lead to seizures, hypothermia, coma, cardiovascular instability, and death. Diagnostic evaluation typically reveals marked hypoglycemia, high anion gap metabolic acidosis, electrolyte derangements, elevated transaminases, and evidence of hepatic dysfunction. Management relies on rapid correction of hypoglycemia with intravenous dextrose, isotonic fluid resuscitation, stabilization of metabolic parameters, and continuous monitoring for hepatic injury or multiorgan failure. Complications include refractory hypoglycemia, shock, aspiration, and fulminant hepatic injury. Prognosis improves with early recognition and prompt dextrose administration, while delayed treatment remains associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to improve learners’ competence in evaluating and managing ackee fruit toxicity. Participants will advance their mastery of the condition’s etiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and best diagnostic and therapeutic practices. Advanced skills will enable clinicians to collaborate with interprofessional teams providing care for affected individuals.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.