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Amphetamine-induced cardiomyopathy complicated by embolic stroke: a case report
Lucy Chapman1, Ismail Khalifa1, Neha Sheriff1
1South Tipperary General Hospital, Clonmel, Ireland.
European Heart Journal. Case Reports
|March 2, 2022
Summary
Amphetamine use can cause severe heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy) and blood clots, leading to stroke. Avoiding amphetamines and adhering to medical treatment are crucial for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Amphetamine use is linked to cardiomyopathy through catecholamine effects.
- While hemorrhagic stroke is a known risk, LV thrombus formation in stimulant-associated cardiomyopathy increases embolic stroke risk.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old man with a history of amphetamine use presented with stroke symptoms.
- Echocardiography revealed severe dilated cardiomyopathy with a left ventricular (LV) thrombus and reduced ejection fraction.
- Mechanical thrombectomy resolved the stroke, and medical management addressed heart failure and LV thrombus.
Findings:
- Sustained amphetamine use can lead to severe dilated cardiomyopathy with LV thrombus.
- This can result in embolic complications, including ischemic stroke.
- Psychosocial factors significantly impact treatment adherence and recovery.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis and management of amphetamine-induced cardiomyopathy are essential.
- Therapy involves avoiding amphetamines and guideline-directed medical management.
- Addressing psychosocial factors is critical for successful patient recovery.
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