Methamphetamine consumption and life-threatening abdominal complications: A case report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Methamphetamine (METH) abuse is a growing global health crisis, particularly in China.
• Abdominal complications associated with METH abuse are frequently underestimated.
• This case highlights unusual gastrointestinal and biliary complications linked to METH use.

Observation:

• A 44-year-old male presented with severe abdominal pain and hematochezia.
• The patient had a documented history of crystal methamphetamine abuse.

Findings:

• Computed tomography (CT) scan, endoscopy, laparotomy, and pathology confirmed diagnoses of septic shock, paralytic ileus, gangrenous cholecystitis, and small intestinal ischemia.
• The patient received antishock treatment, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and underwent exploratory laparotomy.

Implications:

• The patient survived and achieved recovery six months post-treatment, including cessation of METH use.
• Visceral ischemia should be a key consideration in the differential diagnosis for METH abusers presenting with abdominal pain and hematochezia.
• Raising awareness of METH-associated abdominal emergencies is vital for public health.