Bottoms up: methamphetamine toxicity from an unusual route

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Toxicology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Methamphetamine (MA) abuse is increasingly prevalent.
• Emergency physicians encounter diverse MA abuse complications.
• Common MA administration routes include inhalation and intravenous injection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the second documented case of rectal MA abuse.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing rectal MA abuse in emergency settings.
• To discuss the unique risks associated with trans-rectal MA administration.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Literature review of MA abuse routes.
• Clinical assessment of a patient with suspected rectal MA abuse.

Main Results:

• The case details a patient presenting with complications from rectal MA abuse.
• This route of administration is infrequently reported in medical literature.
• Potential complications include significant anorectal trauma and colonic perforation.

Conclusions:

• Rectal MA abuse is an underreported but critical consideration for emergency physicians.
• Early detection of trans-rectal MA use can prevent further absorption and mitigate severe outcomes.
• Awareness of this route is crucial for appropriate patient management and preventing severe gastrointestinal injury.