What are the symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning from corn?

May 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Aflatoxin poisoning can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloating. It may destroy a large number of liver cells, leading to liver damage characterized by hepatic steatosis, hemorrhage, and necrosis. It can also cause certain kidney damage, mainly manifested as symptoms of renal insufficiency such as oliguria, anuria, and hematuria.

Aflatoxin in corn generally refers to aflatoxins. Aflatoxin poisoning mainly manifests as gastrointestinal symptoms, liver damage, and kidney damage. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Gastrointestinal symptoms

Aflatoxin poisoning is primarily caused by consuming food contaminated with aflatoxins. When corn becomes moldy, it is highly likely to produce aflatoxins. After ingestion, gastrointestinal symptoms may occur, including loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloating.

2. Liver damage symptoms

After aflatoxin poisoning, large numbers of liver cells may be destroyed, leading to liver injury. This reduces the body's ability to metabolize and eliminate toxins, resulting in toxin accumulation. As toxins build up, various organs become affected and damaged, manifesting as fatty degeneration, hemorrhage, and necrosis of liver cells.

3. Kidney damage symptoms

Aflatoxin poisoning can also cause certain kidney injuries, mainly presenting as symptoms of renal insufficiency such as oliguria, anuria, and hematuria.

It should be noted that the clinical manifestations of aflatoxin poisoning are related to the ingested dose—the higher the dose, the more severe the symptoms. If symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid serious consequences.