Cocaine-Induced Toxic Leukoencephalopathy: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Toxicology
• Neurology

Background:

• Cocaine abuse is a significant public health issue with diverse neurological complications.
• Leukoencephalopathy is an increasingly recognized, yet poorly understood, consequence of cocaine toxicity.

Observation:

• A 58-year-old male presented with acute, stroke-like symptoms including agitation.
• Neurological and infectious workups, including extensive brain imaging, ruled out other etiologies.
• The patient had a confirmed history of cocaine and cannabinoid abuse.

Findings:

• Diagnosis of exclusion: acute cocaine-induced toxic leukoencephalopathy.
• Treatment focused on supportive care, differing from other reported modalities like steroids or plasma exchange.
• The patient demonstrated marked clinical improvement during hospitalization.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering cocaine-induced leukoencephalopathy in patients with stroke-like symptoms and a history of substance abuse.
• Highlights the potential efficacy of supportive treatment strategies for this condition.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathophysiology and optimal management of cocaine-induced leukoencephalopathy.