Crack-ing the case: a patient with persistent delirium due to body packing with cocaine

Ir Med J. 2012 Apr;105(4):118-9.

Abstract

A 36-year-old male presented acutely with encephalopathy, following his return to Ireland from a visit to West Africa. Clinical findings included confusion, agitation and tonic-clonic seizures. Difficulties in weaning sedation prompted repeat urine toxicology screening at day 8, which was positive for cocaine. Work-up for a source of continued cocaine exposure led to the discovery of cocaine-containing packages in the gastrointestinal tract. An index of suspicion should be maintained in patients presenting with drug toxicity following cross-border travel.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cocaine / poisoning*
  • Colon
  • Delirium / etiology*
  • Foreign Bodies / complications*
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Seizures / etiology*
  • Travel

Substances

  • Cocaine