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Lung disorders due to drug abuse
1Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.
Journal of Thoracic Imaging
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Drug use is increasingly causing diverse lung diseases, especially with crack cocaine. Chest X-rays reveal issues like airspace disease and pneumothorax in cocaine users, requiring radiologist awareness.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Drug-related lung diseases are increasingly prevalent in urban and suburban populations.
- The spectrum of pulmonary pathology is evolving, particularly with the rise in crack cocaine use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the changing spectrum of drug-related pulmonary diseases.
- To inform radiologists about the diverse lung pathologies associated with illicit drug use, including crack cocaine and injection-related complications.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and clinical observations regarding drug-related pulmonary conditions.
- Analysis of reported pulmonary complications in illicit drug users, focusing on chest radiographic findings and specific drug-related pathologies.
Main Results:
- Abnormal chest radiographs in cocaine users range from 12% to 55%, showing findings like airspace disease, atelectasis, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and pulmonary edema.
- Injection-related complications include pulmonary infection, edema, particulate embolism, and talcosis.
- The 'pocket shot' technique presents unique risks.
Conclusions:
- Radiologists must be aware of the wide array of pulmonary diseases linked to illicit drug use.
- The increasing incidence and changing patterns of these diseases necessitate updated diagnostic and clinical awareness.