Postgrad Med J. 2003 Feb; 79(928): 115-6.

The sweet cake that reaches parts other cakes can't!

Hussain RM.

Integrated Department of General Medicine, Pontefract General Infirmary, Friarwood Lane, Pontefract, West Yorkshire WF8 1PL, UK. raja.hussain@panp-tr.northy.nhs.uk

This is a case report of a previously healthy woman of 56 years who presented with a life threatening tetraparesis, severe hypokalaemia, hypertension, and raised muscle enzymes. The cause of was finally found to be unusual and very much "local". Initial inquiry into her drug history was negative until she was made aware that herbal remedies could cause serious adverse reactions. She then mentioned that she had been eating a large number of "Pontefract cakes" (a liquorice sweet) for the management of her chronic constipation. This case highlights the importance of asking about herbal remedies when taking a drug history in all patients, including those admitted as medical emergencies.