A 13-year-old girl with previously undiagnosed fructose intolerance was operated on for acute appendicitis. Postoperatively she received several infusions containing fructose or sorbitol. Haematemesis occurred on the fourth postoperative day, as well as tarry stools and jaundice. Blood sugar was 2 mg/100 ml, Quick test 3%, liver enzymes were markedly elevated, serum bilirubin was over 9 mg/100 ml, and there was a metabolic acidosis. Despite intensive treatment, including haemodialysis and plasmapheresis, she died on the 11th postoperative day.