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Published on: January 22, 2016
Methamphetamine toxicity secondary to intravaginal body stuffing
John Kashani1, Anne-Michelle Ruha
1Department of Medical Toxicology, Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona, USA. john.kashani@bannerhealth.com
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 12, 2005
Summary
Body stuffing, hiding drugs in body cavities, can cause severe toxicity. This case details a young woman
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Body packing and stuffing involve concealing drugs internally for smuggling or evasion.
- Gastrointestinal drug leakage is a common cause of severe toxicity and death.
- Methamphetamine toxicity is less commonly reported in body packers/stuffers compared to other illicit drugs.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old female presented with seizures, altered mental status, tachycardia, and hypertension.
- The patient admitted to intravaginal drug concealment.
- High serum levels of methamphetamine (3100 ng/ml) and amphetamine (110 ng/ml) were confirmed via GCMS.
Findings:
- Intravaginal body stuffing led to severe methamphetamine toxicity.
- The patient experienced multiple seizures and significant cardiovascular and neurological symptoms.
- Gradual symptom improvement occurred, with persistent tachycardia.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe methamphetamine poisoning from intravaginal stuffing.
- A vaginal examination may be crucial in suspected cases of body packing or stuffing.
- Forensic and medical professionals should consider intravaginal concealment in drug toxicity cases.
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