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Endovascular Management of Acute Lower Limb Ischemia Linked to Cocaine Abuse: A Case Report
Julián Andrés Muñoz Durán1, Santiago Echeverri Isaza2, Brayan Muñoz-Caicedo1
1Department of Radiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, COL.
Insights
Cocaine use can cause rare acute limb ischemia. This case shows successful treatment using heparin and nitroglycerin, highlighting the need for more research.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Surgery
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cocaine abuse is a significant public health issue.
- Cardiovascular complications of cocaine use are well-documented.
- Acute limb ischemia is a rare but serious consequence.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old man presented with acute right lower limb ischemia.
- The patient reported heavy cocaine use preceding the ischemia.
- The ischemia was successfully managed using endovascular techniques.
Findings:
- Cocaine use should be considered in cases of acute limb ischemia.
- Systemic heparin and intra-arterial nitroglycerin were effective treatments.
- Endovascular therapy demonstrated efficacy in this scenario.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering illicit drug use in vascular emergencies.
- Further case reports are needed to establish optimal management strategies.
- Improved understanding can lead to better patient outcomes for cocaine-induced ischemia.
Abstract:
Cocaine abuse is a public health concern with well-documented cardiovascular complications. However, acute limb ischemia remains a rare and underreported consequence. We present a case of a 36-year-old man with acute right lower limb ischemia following heavy cocaine use, successfully managed with systemic heparin and intra-arterial nitroglycerin. The case highlights considering cocaine as a potential cause of acute limb ischemia and the efficacy of endovascular therapy. Further case reports with this diagnosis and their management are crucial for establishing the best strategies and improving outcomes in these scenarios.
