1.An unusual cause of acute abdomen and acute renal failure: Djenkolism
Sumitro Kosasih ; Yong CS ; Tan Lian Tat ; Sandy Choo ; Lim Chiao Yuen ; Shariman H ; Anand J ; Chong VH
Malaysian Family Physician 2020;15(2):50-52
Te djenkol bean (Archidendron pauciforum) is a native delicacy in Southeast Asia, though
consumption can sometimes lead to djenkolism. Clinical features of djenkolism include acute
abdominal pain, hematuria, urinary retention, and acute kidney injury (AKI). Te pain can be
severe, which often leads to a misdiagnosis of acute abdomen. In this paper, we report the case of
an Indonesian migrant with djenkolism. Due to the short history and severity of the abdominal
pain, medical professionals suspected acute abdomen and proceeded with a negative exploratory
laparotomy. However, djenkolism was suspected once relatives informed the professionals that the
patient had consumed djenkol beans hours earlier. Te patient recovered through aggressive hydration
and urine alkalinization with bicarbonate infusion. We highlight the importance of being aware of
this rare cause of AKI, especially in Southeast Asia, in order to provide early diagnoses and prompt
treatments.