Segmental spleen and left kidney infarction induced by vasoconstriction in a methamphetamine abuser patient: a case...

Methamphetamine is one of the most used illicit drugs worldwide that affects different systems of the body by an immediate and sustained increase of monoamines. Its effect on the central nervous system (CNS) and neurotoxic effects are best known. There are also many reports of its effects on vasoconstriction in some peripheral and large caliber arteries, which results in different organ and limb disturbances.

We report a rare case of a man with simultaneous spleen and left kidney infarction captured on contrast-enhanced computed tomographyeffects, without evidence of thrombosis or atherosclerosis, findings strongly suggestive of methamphetamine-induced vasospasm. The patient's abdominal pain improved under observation within days without apparent tissue loss or organ failure. Unfortunately, the patient passed away as a result of bradycardia and cardiac arrest.

This very rare case highlights the potentially severe vasospastic complications of methamphetamine abuse, which may result in multiorgan infarction. The fatal outcome in this patient was primarily due to underlying cardiac disease and endocarditis, although methamphetamine-associated cardiovascular strain could not be excluded as a contributor. Clinicians should consider vascular events in methamphetamine users presenting with atypical abdominal pain or any signs of organ dysfunction.