Dermatological aspects of synthetic cannabinoid addiction

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have recently become one of the most abused substances among young population and have caused severe health consequences in our country and worldwide.

The aim of this study was to investigate sociodemographic and dermatological findings in SC addicts.

A total of 136 SC users who applied to our hospital's Substance Dependence Center outpatient clinic and diagnosed with drug addiction according to DSM-4 criteria between September 2014 and September 2015 were enrolled to our study. Patients were evaluated by dermatologist and psychiatrist with sociodemographic and clinical data sheets. Data were obtained by direct conversation with patients, clinical examination findings, and laboratory tests, if necessary.

Of 136 patients, 12 (8.8%) were female and 124 (91.2%) were male, aged between 17 and 53 with mean age of 25.8 ± 9.2. Most common use way of SC was smoking and patients majorly used opiates before SC. The majority of the patients enrolled to our study were low-educated and almost 50% did not have a regular job. The most frequent dermatologic complaints were periorbital darkening, hallowed-cheeks and premature aging, hair loss and gray hair, and acnes, whereas most frequent dermatologic examination findings were artifact lesions such as blade scars and tobacco scars-stains, tattoos, and acnes.

Given the increased prevalence of SC use in our country and around the world, dermatologists should continue to familiarize themselves with the common mucocutaneous markers of this substance use. Awareness of signs of SCs use will facilitate earlier diagnose, intervention, and directed treatment.