Fish faddism causing low-level mercury poisoning in the Caribbean: two case reports.
Two otherwise healthy middle-aged males presented with persistent abdominal and lower- back pain, progressive weakness, paraesthesias, fatigue and weight loss over 8-12 months. Extensive work-up failed to localize organ pathology. Both men, strongly aware of the nutritional benefits of fish had a diet dedicated of canned and fresh fish. Raised blood mercury levels confirmed clinical suspicion and serial levels declined with symptom resolution after excluding dietary fish. To gain reported health benefits of fish as a healthy food modest consumption is encouraged. Efforts to monitor fish consumption and mercury residues in fish are recommended in Trinidad and Tobago.
Pinto Pereira
Lexley M
LM
Departments of Para-clinical Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies.
Teelucksingh
Surujpaul
S