The body packer syndrome--cocaine smuggling in the gastro-intestinal tract

Klin Wochenschr. 1988 Nov 15;66(22):1116-20. doi: 10.1007/BF01727846.

Abstract

Cocaine drug packets were found in the gastro-intestinal tract of seven persons, charged with and arrested for presumed drug smuggling. Plain abdominal roentgenograms were positive in 4, while computer tomography of the abdomen (CT-scan) was necessary in 3 others to make the diagnosis. There were no signs of acute intoxication or bowel obstruction. All patients were treated with enemas and/or laxatives in order to evacuate the hidden packets; no complications occurred. A clinical description of the seven cases is followed by a short review of the literature, mainly focused on the possible complications of ingested drug packets and possible methods of removal.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cocaine*
  • Digestive System / diagnostic imaging*
  • Drug and Narcotic Control / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Enema
  • Female
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Foreign Bodies / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Cocaine