In Vietnam, a 42-year-old man recently consumed a ban mou worm and experienced severe symptoms. After consuming the worm, he suffered from vomiting, stomach pain, numbness in his tongue and face, and blood in his urine. The patient was rushed to Central Military Hospital 108 for intensive medical treatment.
Upon admission to the hospital, the patient received resuscitation, fluid infusion, detoxification, and close monitoring of his organ function. Despite initially being in critical condition, the patient’s condition has since stabilized and his muscle weakness has improved. Additionally, his kidney function has returned to normal.
Dr. Pham Dang Hai from the Department of Internal Medicine and Poison Control explained that ban mou worms are commonly believed to enhance health among many people. However, these insects contain a toxic substance called cantharidin which can lead to poisoning and severe symptoms if ingested.
Ban mou worms are small black beetles with a heart-shaped head that are often found in Vietnam’s wilderness. Symptoms of cantharidin poisoning include blister formation on the skin, gastrointestinal damage, multi-organ dysfunction, and even death if left untreated or not properly managed.
To prevent such incidents from occurring again doctors advise against eating unfamiliar insects and urge people to thoroughly inspect fruits and vegetables before consumption to avoid accidentally consuming moth worms or other potentially harmful substances.