The cause of endomyocardial fibrosis in Uganda

Trop Doct. 2012 Oct;42(4):206-7. doi: 10.1258/td.2012.120245. Epub 2012 Aug 7.

Abstract

The cause of endomyocardial fibrosis in Uganda remains unknown in spite of studies dating back to 1948. Herbal decoctions have been used by traditional healers for countless generations to treat many complaints, especially fever. We present evidence - ethnic, geographical, tribal, pathological and distribution by age - that the toxic herbal decoctions taken as medicines in Uganda can cause endomyocardial fibrosis.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Argemone / adverse effects*
  • Child
  • Endomyocardial Fibrosis / chemically induced*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medicine, African Traditional / adverse effects*
  • Phytotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Uganda