Chronic Intestinal Dysmotility (CID) Secondary to Consumption of Sushi: A Case Series and Literature Review

Abstract

Chronic intestinal dysmotility (CID) applies to abnormal contractions caused by uncoordinated muscular activity in the intestines. Various associations and hypotheses have been postulated, but the etiology of CID is not clear. We present a case series of four young patients aged 16 - 30 years who presented with non specific gastrointestinal symptoms of abdominal pains, nausea, vomiting and constipation. There was no radiological evidence of intestinal dilatation. Laboratory and endoscopic evaluation failed to reveal any clear etiology. Dietary history revealed frequent consumption of sushi by all four patients. Chronic mercury toxicity via frequent sushi consumption was postulated to be the possible etiology of CID in these patients. Patients were advised to stop further sushi consumption. They were treated symptomatically with acid suppressing medications, anti-emetics, analgesics, antispasmodics and laxatives as needed. A remarkable improvement in symptoms was seen within 2 - 3 months. The present article systematically reviews the underlying etiology and presentation of CID secondary to sushi consumption with a focus on its public health importance.




J Med Cases. 2014;5(2):98-104
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jmc1688e