Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2025
A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
Methamphetamine-Induced Bowel Ischemia in a 50-Year-Old Male
Brian Kurtz1, Abdalhai Alshoubi1, Katrina Nguyen1
1St. Joseph's Medical Center/Dignity Health, 1800 N California St., Stockton, CA 95204, USA.
Abstract:
Methamphetamine intoxication is a known risk factor for nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI). We describe a case of a 50-year-old male with a history of polysubstance abuse who presented to the Emergency Department with severe abdominal pain and coffee-ground emesis. Computed tomographic (CT) imaging demonstrated portal venous gas and diffuse colonic wall thickening concerning for ischemic colitis. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy with resection of the ascending colon as well as a necrotic section of the jejunum. Further embolic workup was negative with a subjective history of amphetamine use prior to presentation. NOMI has a high fatality rate, and we recommend providers include drug-induced bowel infarction on their differential when presented with findings of ischemic bowel of unclear etiology.
Insights
Methamphetamine intoxication can cause nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI), a serious condition. This case highlights the need to consider drug-induced bowel infarction in patients with ischemic bowel symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI) is a severe condition with a high mortality rate.
- Methamphetamine use is an identified risk factor for NOMI.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old male with polysubstance abuse presented with severe abdominal pain and coffee-ground emesis.
- CT imaging revealed portal venous gas and colonic wall thickening, indicative of ischemic colitis.
Findings:
- Exploratory laparotomy confirmed ischemic bowel, necessitating resection of the ascending colon and jejunum.
- Embolic workup was negative, with the patient reporting amphetamine use prior to presentation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering drug-induced bowel infarction in the differential diagnosis of ischemic bowel.
- Early recognition and consideration of stimulant-induced mesenteric ischemia can improve patient outcomes.
