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Sonographic findings in methamphetamine-induced ischemic colitis
1Department of Radiology, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento 95817, USA.
Journal of Clinical Ultrasound : JCU
|November 4, 1998
Summary
Methamphetamine use can cause ischemic colitis, a condition typically seen in older adults. Imaging like sonography and CT can reveal bowel wall thickening in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Ischemic colitis is a condition affecting the colon, often seen in elderly individuals with risk factors like atherosclerosis or diabetes.
- While uncommon, drug use is a known cause of ischemic colitis, with various substances implicated.
Observation:
- This report details an unusual case of ischemic colitis in a young patient with a history of methamphetamine abuse.
- The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of colitis, prompting diagnostic imaging.
Findings:
- Sonography and computed tomography (CT) demonstrated diffuse thickening of the large bowel wall.
- These imaging findings are consistent with ischemic colitis, an uncommon presentation for methamphetamine users.
Implications:
- Methamphetamine abuse should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ischemic colitis, especially in younger patients without typical risk factors.
- Radiologists and clinicians should be aware of this association when evaluating colitic conditions in at-risk populations.