Agony of the ecstasy: report of five cases of MDMA smuggling

Australas Radiol. 2005 Oct;49(5):400-3. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1673.2005.01503.x.

Abstract

The international smuggling of illicit drugs by the ingestion or rectal insertion of drug-filled packages is recognized in the trafficking of heroin and cocaine. Customs authorities, with suspicion of such activities, presented five subjects. The legally allowed radiological examination comprising one supine abdominal radiograph was performed. Radiographic findings demonstrated the presence of multiple enteric oval, capsule-shaped packages of soft tissue density. This was confirmed following supervised evacuation of bowel contents induced by the administration of laxatives. Analysis of the concealed material identified ecstasy (methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)), a substance not previously reported as transported by this route.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Crime
  • Digestive System / diagnostic imaging*
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs*
  • Male
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine*
  • Radiography, Abdominal*
  • Travel

Substances

  • Illicit Drugs
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine