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Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome presenting with ventricular bigeminy
Jeffrey Wong1, Muneet Gill2, Thor Stead3
1University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA.
Journal of Cannabis Research
|October 20, 2023
Summary
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is an increasingly common cause of emergency department visits, often presenting as severe nausea and vomiting. This case highlights CHS associated with ventricular bigeminy, a serious cardiac arrhythmia.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Cardiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition causing recurrent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in long-term cannabis users.
- The increasing availability and use of cannabis products have led to a rise in CHS presentations to emergency departments.
- Cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular bigeminy, are not commonly associated with CHS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome presenting with ventricular bigeminy.
- To increase awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the potential cardiac complications of CHS.
- To emphasize the importance of considering CHS in patients with unexplained gastrointestinal distress and cardiac abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 28-year-old male presenting with symptoms consistent with gastritis.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed ventricular bigeminy.
- Diagnosis of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome was established based on clinical presentation and history of cannabis use.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with severe nausea and vomiting, initially attributed to gastritis.
- Ventricular bigeminy was detected on pre-hospital electrocardiogram.
- The patient was ultimately diagnosed with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Conclusions:
- Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is an emerging cause of emergency department visits.
- CHS can be associated with significant cardiac complications, including ventricular bigeminy.
- Early recognition and management of CHS are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
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