Starfruit Reported Life-Threatening to Renal Patients

(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) Although formal studies have yet to be completed, a Malaysian doctor has raised the alarm about eating starfruit (also called carambola). Reportedly, starfruit can be life-threatening to patients with kidney problems.

Professor Dr Tan Si Yen, a medical specialist at the University Malaya Medical Centre, said the fruit contains a neurotoxin and a high level of oxalic acid (or oxalate) which could be harmful to renal patients.

Dr Tan was referring to retiree Tang Gon Seang, who allegedly slipped into a coma after eating starfruit in China.

Dr Tan said the weakened kidneys of renal patients were not able to process the high level of oxalate, causing the organ to fail.

Speaking at the MCA Public Service and Complaints Bureau yesterday, he said typical symptoms occurred within one to five hours. They include persistent hiccups, nausea, vomiting, agitation, insomnia, mental confusion and convulsions.

"It can also cause death but it can be treated through aggressive dialysis sessions," said Dr Tan, adding that no deaths had been recorded so far.

Starfruit is popular and consumed worldwide so this is a nice heads up on a potential problem. People with renal insufficiency should keep it in mind until studies are completed and a medical opinion is published.