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Cañas CA, Posso-Osorio I, Rivera-Londoño R, Bolaños JD, Granados AM. Severe cerebral edema related to oral methadone: A case report and literature review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26111. [PMID: 38390136 PMCID: PMC10881884 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Opioids are widely used for pain management, and increased intracranial pressure (ICP) has been evidenced in some cases. We reported a patient with severe cerebral edema after initiating methadone and its complete resolution upon discontinuing the medication. Additionally, a review of the literature is made. Case report A 53-year-old woman patient with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus developed mechanic chronic lower back pain, refractory to conventional treatments. She presented improvement with oxycodone. She withdrew this medication due to a lack of supplies in her country (Colombia) and showed withdrawal symptoms. She consulted the emergency department, where oral methadone was started and symptom control was achieved. Three days after admission, she presented intense headaches and emesis. A brain CT scan was performed in which severe cerebral edema was appreciated. Methadone was discontinued, and neurological symptoms quickly disappeared. A follow-up brain CT scan was performed later, finding full resolution of the edema. Conclusion A case of severe cerebral edema associated with the initiation of oral methadone and its rapid resolution without neurological sequelae after its withdrawal is presented, clinicians must be attentive to this adverse event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Cañas
- Universidad Icesi, CIRAT: Research Center in Rheumatology, Autoimmunity and Translational Medicine, Valle del Cauca, Cali, Colombia
- Fundación Valle del Lili, Rheumatology Unit, Valle del Cauca, Cra. 98 No. 18-49, Cali, 760032, Colombia
| | - Ivan Posso-Osorio
- Fundación Valle del Lili, Rheumatology Unit, Valle del Cauca, Cra. 98 No. 18-49, Cali, 760032, Colombia
- Universidad Icesi, Faculty of Health Sciences, Valle del Cauca, Cali, Colombia
| | | | - Juan D Bolaños
- Fundación Valle del Lili, Clinical Research Center, Cali, 760032, Colombia
| | - Ana M Granados
- Fundación Valle del Lili, Radiology Unit, Valle del Cauca, Cra. 98 No. 18-49, Cali, 760032, Colombia
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Jangir H, Balmuchu G, Mylapalli JL, Subramanian A, Lalwani S. Spongiform leukoencephalopathy unveiled in an autopsy of a drug abuser. Autops Case Rep 2024; 13:e2023465. [PMID: 38213876 PMCID: PMC10782519 DOI: 10.4322/acr.2023.465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Toxic leukoencephalopathy (TLE) is a rare neurological debilitating and fatal condition. It has been previously associated with exposure to leukotoxic offenders such as chemotherapy, cranial radiation, certain drugs, and environmental factors. Currently, it is a commoner white matter syndrome resulting from increased substance abuse, classically by inhaled heroin and other opioids. Herein, we report a case of fatal TLE unveiled in an autopsy of a drug abuser. A 24-year-old male was found dead on the roadside. A day before, he was located in a state of delirium. In this case, the autopsy findings and histopathology characteristics of cerebral cortex involvement particularly directed to speculate the heroine as the principal offender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemlata Jangir
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, Department of Laboratory Medicine, New Delhi, India
| | - Govinda Balmuchu
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, Department of Forensic Pathology and Molecular DNA, New Delhi, India
| | - Jhansi Lakshmi Mylapalli
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, Department of Forensic Pathology and Molecular DNA, New Delhi, India
| | - Arulselvi Subramanian
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, Department of Laboratory Medicine, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeev Lalwani
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, Department of Forensic Pathology and Molecular DNA, New Delhi, India
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Zarei MJ, Ramezani M, Sahraie Z, Shadnia S, Erfan Talab Evini P, Mostafazadeh B, Rahimi M. Comparing Two Naloxone Tapering Methods in Management of Methadone Intoxication; a Quasi-experimental Study. Arch Acad Emerg Med 2023; 11:e46. [PMID: 37609540 PMCID: PMC10440751 DOI: 10.22037/aaem.v11i1.2047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Even though naloxone is the main treatment for methadone poisoning treatment there are controversies about the proper method of its tapering. This study aimed to compare two methods in this regard. Method This study was a prospective, single-blind pilot quasi-experimental study on non-addicted adult patients poisoned with methadone. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. In one group, after stabilization of respiratory conditions and consciousness, naloxone was tapered using the half-life of methadone and in the other group, naloxone was tapered using the half-life of naloxone. Recurrence of symptoms and changes in venous blood gas parameters were compared between groups as outcome. Results 52 patients were included (51.92% female). 31 cases entered Group A (tapering based on methadone's half-life) and 21 cases entered Group B (tapering based on naloxone's half-life). The two groups were similar regarding mean age (p = 0.575), gender distribution (p = 0.535), the cause of methadone use (p = 0.599), previous medical history (p = 0.529), previous methadone use (p = 0.654), drug use history (p = 0.444), and vital signs on arrival to emergency department (p = 0.054). The cases of re-decreasing consciousness during tapering (52.38% vs. 25.81%; p = 0.049) and after discontinuation of naloxone (72.73% vs. 37.50%; p = 0.050) were higher in the tapering based on naloxone half-life group. The relative risk reduction (RRR) for naloxone half-life group was -1.03 and for methadone half-life group was 0.51. The absolute risk reduction (ARR) was 0.27 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.01-0.53) and the number needed to treat (NNT) was 3.7 (95% CI= 1.87- 150.53). There was not any statistically significant difference between groups regarding pH, HCO3, and PCO2 changes during tapering and after naloxone discontinuation (p > 0.05). However, repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), showed that in the tapering based on methadone's half-life group, the number of changes and stability in the normal range were better (p < 0.001). Conclusion It seems that, by tapering naloxone based on methadone's half-life, not only blood acid-base disorders are treated, but they also remain stable after discontinuation and the possibility of symptom recurrence is reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Javad Zarei
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maral Ramezani
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Zahra Sahraie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Shadnia
- Toxicological Research Center, Excellence Center & Department of Clinical Toxicology
| | | | - Babak Mostafazadeh
- Toxicological Research Center, Excellence Center & Department of Clinical Toxicology
| | - Mitra Rahimi
- Toxicological Research Center, Excellence Center & Department of Clinical Toxicology
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Mahoney JJ, Winstanley EL, Castillo F, Luba R, Marton J, Alschuler DM, Liu Y, Comer SD. A pilot study investigating cognitive impairment associated with opioid overdose. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 247:109865. [PMID: 37094488 PMCID: PMC10230403 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2021, while overdose (OD) deaths were at the highest in recorded history, it is estimated that >80% of ODs do not result in a fatality. While several case studies have indicated that opioid-related ODs can result in cognitive impairment, the possible association has not yet been systematically investigated. METHODS 78 participants with a history of OUD who reported experiencing an OD in the past year (n=35) or denied a lifetime history of OD (n=43) completed this study. Participants completed cognitive assessments including the Test of Premorbid Functioning (TOPF) and the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB). Comparisons were made between those who experienced an opioid-related OD in the past year versus those who denied a lifetime OD history while controlling for factors including age, premorbid functioning, and number of prior ODs. RESULTS When comparing those who experienced an opioid-related OD within the past year to those without a history of OD, uncorrected standard scores were generally comparable; however, differences emerged in the multivariable model. Specifically, compared to those without a history of OD, those who experienced a past year OD evidenced significantly lower total cognition composite scores (coef. = -7.112; P=0.004), lower crystalized cognition composite scores (coef. = -4.194; P=0.009), and lower fluid cognition composite scores (coef. = -7.879; P=0.031). CONCLUSIONS Findings revealed that opioid-related ODs may be associated with, or contribute to, reduced cognition. Extent of the impairment appears contingent upon individuals' premorbid intellectual functioning and the cumulative number of past ODs. While statistically significant, clinical significance may be limited given that performance differences (∼4 - 8 points) were not particularly robust. More rigorous investigation is warranted, and future studies must also account for the many other variables possibly contributing to cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Mahoney
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
| | - Erin L Winstanley
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Felipe Castillo
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Luba
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Marton
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Ying Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sandra D Comer
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
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Macchi ZA, Carlisle TC, Filley CM. Prognosis in substance abuse-related acute toxic leukoencephalopathy: A scoping review. J Neurol Sci 2022; 442:120420. [PMID: 36156344 PMCID: PMC11008924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Abuse of opiates, cocaine, and lipophilic inhalants (e.g., toluene) can damage brain myelin and cause acute toxic leukoencephalopathy (TL), but little is known about recovery or prognosis in this condition. In light of the ongoing opiate epidemic in the United States, it is important to understand the natural history of patients who have acute neurological complications from illicit drug exposure. Our aim was to conduct a scoping review of the literature regarding prognosis in described cases of substance abuse-related TL. METHODS A strategic search of PubMed, Ovid, Cumulative Index to Nursing, and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases yielded adult cases of acute TL from opiates, cocaine, or inhalants. Cases and case series were eligible for inclusion if they described acute leukoencephalopathy with a clear temporal association with opiate, cocaine, or inhalant abuse. Inclusion was contingent on availability of clinical descriptions until death or ≥ 4 weeks follow-up with neuroimaging consistent with TL. RESULTS Among 52 cases from 14 articles, 21 (40.4%) individuals died with mean time to death of 28.2 days; with mean follow-up of 12.8 months, 10 (19.2%) survived with no recovery, 17 (32.7%) had partial recovery, and 4 (7.7%) individuals had full recovery. CONCLUSION Substance abuse-related acute TL often has a poor prognosis, but partial or even full recovery is possible in a subgroup of individuals over months to years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A Macchi
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 1635 Aurora Ct, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Behavioral Neurology Section, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12649 E 17(th) Place, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Tara C Carlisle
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 1635 Aurora Ct, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Movement Disorders Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 E 17(th) Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Christopher M Filley
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 1635 Aurora Ct, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Behavioral Neurology Section, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12649 E 17(th) Place, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 1890 N Revere Ct, Suite 4020, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Marcus Institute for Brain Health, University of Colorado, 12348 E Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Gasimova U, Afzal KM, Acharya AB. Neurological Manifestations of Chronic Methadone Maintenance Therapy: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2022; 14:e29534. [PMID: 36312663 PMCID: PMC9595224 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Methadone is a long-acting opioid medication that is used as maintenance therapy for heroin addiction. We present a case of a patient on methadone maintenance therapy for chronic back pain who developed neurological complications. The patient presented with mental status changes and choreiform movements. Workup revealed lesions involving the subcortical white matter and basal ganglia. Choreiform movements improved after the initiation of treatment with topiramate, clonazepam, and risperidone. This combination was chosen as several prior case reports published significant benefit and improvement in choreiform movements with the mentioned regimen.
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Winstanley EL, Mahoney JJ, Castillo F, Comer SD. Neurocognitive impairments and brain abnormalities resulting from opioid-related overdoses: A systematic review. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 226:108838. [PMID: 34271512 PMCID: PMC8889511 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-fatal opioid-related overdoses have increased significantly over the past two decades and there have been increasing reports of brain injuries and/or neurocognitive impairments following overdose events. Limited preclinical research suggests that opioid overdoses may cause brain injury; however, little is known about such injuries in humans. The purpose this systematic review is to summarize existing studies on neurocognitive impairments and/or brain abnormalities associated with an opioid-related overdose in humans. METHODS PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid MEDLINE and PsyINFO were searched, without year restrictions, and identified 3099 articles. An additional 24 articles were identified by reviewing references. Articles were included if they were published in English, reported study findings in humans, included individuals 18 years of age or older, and reported an objective measure of neurocognitive impairments and/or brain abnormalities resulting from an opioid-related overdose. Six domains of bias (selection, performance, attrition, detection (two dimensions) and reporting were evaluated and themes were summarized. RESULTS Seventy-nine journal articles, published between 1973-2020, were included in the review. More than half of the articles were case reports (n = 44) and there were 11 cohort studies, 18 case series, and 6 case-control studies. All of the studies were categorized as at-risk of bias, few controlled for confounding factors, and methodological differences made direct comparisons difficult. Less than half of the studies reported toxicology results confirming an opioid-related overdose; 64.6 % reported brain MRI results and 27.8 % reported results of neuropsychological testing. Only two studies had within subject comparative data to document changes in the brain possibly associated with an overdose. Despite these limitations, existing publications suggest that brain injuries and neurocognitive impairments are associated with opioid overdose. Additional research is needed to establish the incidence of overdose-related brain injuries and the potential impact on functioning, as well as engagement in treatment of substance use disorders. CONCLUSIONS Respiratory depression is a defining characteristic of opioid overdose and prolonged cerebral hypoxia may cause brain injuries and/or neurocognitive impairments. The onset, characteristics, and duration of such injuries is variable and additional research is needed to understand their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L. Winstanley
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA,Corresponding author at: West Virginia University, School of Medicine, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, 930 Chestnut Ridge Road, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA. (E.L. Winstanley)
| | - James J. Mahoney
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Felipe Castillo
- Columbia University, Department of Psychiatry and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sandra D. Comer
- Columbia University, Department of Psychiatry and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
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Abstract
Oxycodone-induced leukoencephalopathy is a rare diagnosis that should be considered in unconscious patients with appropriate history. We describe a case of a 57-year-old unconscious woman who required intubation and did not respond to naloxone infusion. The unconsciousness was initially thought to be due to hypoxic brain injury. However, a further review of brain imaging showed characteristic features of oxycodone-induced leukoencephalopathy. We describe the pathological and radiological features of this condition, and provide a concise review of the limited literature on this condition. Accurate diagnosis of this condition will be valuable to clinicians and patients in terms of their medium-term and long-term prognosis, and potential for rehabilitation.
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Dinicu AI, Chaudhari A, Kayyal S. Diffuse subcortical white matter injury and bilateral basal ganglia neuronal loss after acute opioid overdose. Neuroradiol J 2021; 33:267-270. [PMID: 32508271 DOI: 10.1177/1971400920927878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Opiate intoxication has been associated with life-threatening effects of sympathetic suppression and respiratory depression, but current literature is limited in describing its neurotoxic effects on the central nervous system. Here, we present the case of an otherwise high-functioning adolescent male who was found unresponsive after ingestion of approximately 3-4 fake oxycodone 10-325 mg pills laced with fentanyl. Magnetic resonance imaging showed evidence of diffuse T2 hyperintensities in the corpus callosum and bilateral frontal, parietal, and cerebellum indicative of diffuse white matter injury. In addition, there were distinct areas of restricted diffusion in the bilateral basal ganglia concerning for oxidative stress-mediated neuronal loss. His neurological exam improved with supportive treatment over the course of his hospitalization. Although limited literature has shown leukoencephalopathy to be associated with opioid overdose, we present a case of additional involvement of subcortical gray matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea I Dinicu
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine (UCI), USA
| | - Amit Chaudhari
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine (UCI), USA
| | - Simon Kayyal
- Department of Neurology, CHOC Children's Specialists, Orange, USA
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Ahmad-Molaei L, Pourhamzeh M, Ahadi R, Khodagholi F, Hassanian-Moghaddam H, Haghparast A. Time-Dependent Changes in the Serum Levels of Neurobiochemical Factors After Acute Methadone Overdose in Adolescent Male Rat. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 41:1635-1649. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00931-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Haghighi-Morad M, Naseri Z, Jamshidi N, Hassanian-Moghaddam H, Zamani N, Ahmad-Molaei L. Methadone-induced encephalopathy: a case series and literature review. BMC Med Imaging 2020; 20:6. [PMID: 31952488 PMCID: PMC6969410 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-020-0410-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accidental ingestion or consumption of supra-therapeutic doses of methadone can result in neurological sequelae in humans. We aimed to determine the neurological deficits of methadone-poisoned patients admitted to a referral poisoning hospital using brain magnetic resonance (MR) and diffusion weighted (DW) imaging. METHODS In this retrospective study, brain MRIs of the patients admitted to our referral center due to methadone intoxication were reviewed. Methadone intoxication was confirmed based on history, congruent clinical presentation, and confirmatory urine analysis. Each patient had an MRI with Echo planar T1, T2, FLAIR, and DWI and apparent deficient coefficient (ADC) sequences without contrast media. Abnormalities were recorded and categorized based on their anatomic location and sequence. RESULTS Ten patients with abnormal MRI findings were identified. Eight had acute- and two had delayed-onset encephalopathy. Imaging findings included bilateral confluent or patchy T2 and FLAIR high signal intensity in cerebral white matter, cerebellar involvement, and bilateral occipito-parietal cortex diffusion restriction in DWI. Internal capsule involvement was identified in two patients while abnormality in globus pallidus and head of caudate nuclei were reported in another. Bilateral cerebral symmetrical confluent white matter signal abnormality with sparing of subcortical U-fibers on T2 and FLAIR sequences were observed in both patients with delayed-onset encephalopathy. CONCLUSIONS Acute- and delayed-onset encephalopathies are two rare adverse events detected in methadone-intoxicated patients. Brain MRI findings can be helpful in detection of methadone-induced encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Haghighi-Morad
- Department of Radiology, Loghman-Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Naseri
- Department of Radiology, Loghman-Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazila Jamshidi
- Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hossein Hassanian-Moghaddam
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nasim Zamani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Ahmad-Molaei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Toxic encephalopathy is a wide spectrum of encephalopathy secondary to insult from toxic substances, with variable clinical presentations from minor cognitive impairment to severe neurological dysfunction and death. Methadone-induced toxic encephalopathy is an extremely rare form of toxic encephalopathy which typically demonstrates abnormal imaging findings in the dentate nuclei or cerebellum. This is a report of methadone-induced toxic encephalopathy in two toddlers secondary to accidental ingestion. They were brought in unconscious to the emergency department of a tertiary hospital and were found to be cyanotic and pulseless, requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation and mechanical ventilation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain of both patients showed similar findings of symmetrical hyperintense foci in bilateral cerebellar hemispheres on T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequences. These areas also demonstrated diffusion restriction on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). Blood and urine toxicology results confirmed the presence of methadone in both patients. As the exact substance of accidental ingestion may not be known at the time of presentation, early radiological diagnosis of methadone-induced encephalopathy may prompt early initiation of treatment to prevent further life-threatening complications, particularly in vulnerable pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Ching Tiong
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Hau Wei Khoo
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Chee Hui Ng
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
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Abstract
Goals consist of determining 5-year prevalence and recurrence of methadone-related delirium (MRD), along with causes, treatments, and outcomes. Sample comprised 81 patients in methadone maintenance treatment. Criteria for MRD encompassed delirium with high methadone serum levels plus alleviation of delirium upon lowering methadone serum levels. MRD occurred in 14 cases who had 25 episodes. MRD precipitants included physician prescribing (i.e., excessive methadone or medications slowing methadone metabolism), drug misuse, and renal-fluid alterations. Social affiliation (housing with family, intimate partner) reduced MRD; employment increased MRD. Recovery occurred in 23/25 episodes of MRD; two episodes progressed to dementia. Obtaining serum methadone levels fostered prompt recognition.
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van Esch AMJ, Fest A, Hoffland BS, Janzing JGE, Steens SCA, Esselink RAJ, Schellekens AFA. Toxic Leukoencephalopathy Presenting as Lethal Catatonia. J Addict Med 2019; 13:241-4. [PMID: 30394993 DOI: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000000470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Catatonia is a syndrome that can present in different forms and can occur in multiple psychiatric and somatic conditions. This case report describes lethal catatonia caused by delayed toxic leukoencephalopathy after excessive use of cocaine and methadone. The characteristic radiographic imaging and biphasic course are discussed. CASE REPORT A 54-year-old woman was presented unconsciously at the emergency department after intoxication with methadone and cocaine. After initial recovery, her condition deteriorated unexpectedly, resulting in lethal catatonia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hyperintense white matter abnormalities and diffusion restriction, evident for leukoencephalopathy. DISCUSSION Catatonia can develop in multiple psychiatric and somatic diseases, including toxic leukoencephalopathy. A biphasic course and specific MRI findings are characteristics for delayed toxic leukoencephalopathy, due to intoxication with drugs.
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Milroy CM, Kepron C, Parai JL. Histologic Changes In Recreational Drug Misuse. Acad Forensic Pathol 2018; 8:653-691. [PMID: 31240063 DOI: 10.1177/1925362118797740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Use of recreational drugs is associated with a number of histologic changes. These may be related to the method of administration or due to systemic effects of the drugs. This paper reviews the histopathological features seen following recreational drug use. With injection, there may be local effects from abscess formation and systemic effects may result in amyloidosis. Injections have been associated with necrotizing fasciitis, anthrax, and clostridial infections. Systemic effects include infective endocarditis, with the risk of embolization, and abscesses may be seen in organs in the absence of infective endocarditis. Viral complications of injection include hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Injecting crushed tablets can result in intravascular granulomata in the lungs. Smoking drugs is associated with intraalveolar changes, including blackand brown-pigmented macrophages in crack cocaine and cannabis smoking, respectively. Snorting may result in intraalveolar granulomata forming when crush tablets are used and there may be systemic granulomata. Stimulants are associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular pathology, including contraction band necrosis and myocardial fibrosis, as well as coronary artery dissection. Stimulants may cause hyperpyrexia and rhabdomyolysis, which may be associated with changes in multiple organs including myoglobin casts in the kidney. Opioids cause respiratory depression and this can be associated with inhalational pneumonia and hypoxia in other organs if there is resuscitation and a period of survival. Ketamine use has been associated with changes in the urothelium and the liver. This paper reviews histology changes that may be seen in drug-related deaths using illustrative cases.
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16
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Kontzialis M, Huisman TAGM. Toxic-Metabolic Neurologic Disorders in Children: A Neuroimaging Review. J Neuroimaging 2018; 28:587-595. [PMID: 30066477 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
There are multiple causes of neurotoxicity in children including medications, extrinsic toxins and insults, illicit drugs, built up of toxic metabolites due to genetic or acquired disorders, and metabolic abnormalities. The review is centered on causes of neurotoxicity affecting the pediatric brain and producing typical and easily recognized imaging manifestations. Early identification of common and less common imaging findings may point toward the correct direction, and may facilitate early diagnosis and institution of appropriate treatment to reverse or at least limit the injury to the developing brain. Two common imaging patterns of neurotoxicity in children are the posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and acute toxic leukoencephalopathy that are usually related to chemotherapy and immunosuppression for common pediatric malignancies. Another well-described imaging pattern of injury in children involves reversible splenial lesions with or without associated white matter abnormalities. Multiple additional extrinsic causes of neurotoxicity are presented including radiation and chemoradiation, various medications and treatment regimens, poisoning, illicit drug use or accidental exposure, and the respective characteristic neuroimaging findings are highlighted. Intrinsic neurotoxicity may occur in the setting of inborn errors of metabolism or acquired progressive organ failure leading to build up of toxic metabolites. Additional intrinsic causes of neurotoxicity include metabolic derangements and characteristic imaging findings in all instances are reviewed. The goal of the article is to enhance familiarity of neurologists and neuroradiologists with the imaging appearance of common and less common toxic insults to the pediatric brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinos Kontzialis
- Section of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Thierry A G M Huisman
- Pediatric Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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17
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Fan R, Schrott LM, Arnold T, Snelling S, Rao M, Graham D, Cornelius A, Korneeva NL. Chronic oxycodone induces axonal degeneration in rat brain. BMC Neurosci 2018; 19:15. [PMID: 29571287 PMCID: PMC5865283 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-018-0417-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic opioid therapy for non-malignant pain conditions has significantly increased over the last 15 years. Recently, the correlation between opioid analgesics and alternations in brain structure, such as leukoencephalopathy, axon demyelination, and white matter lesions, has been demonstrated in patients with a history of long-term use of prescription opioids. The exact mechanisms underlying the neurotoxic effect of opioids on the central nervous system are still not fully understood. We investigated the effect of chronic opioids using an animal model in which female rats were orally gavaged with 15 mg/kg of oxycodone every 24 h for 30 days. In addition we tested oxycodone, morphine and DAMGO in breast adenocarcinoma MCF7 cells, which are known to express the μ-opioid receptor. RESULTS We observed several changes in the white matter of animals treated with oxycodone: deformation of axonal tracks, reduction in size of axonal fascicles, loss of myelin basic protein and accumulation of amyloid precursor protein beta (β-APP), suggesting axonal damages by chronic oxycodone. Moreover, we demonstrated activation of pro-apoptotic machinery amid suppression of anti-apoptotic signaling in axonal tracks that correlated with activation of biomarkers of the integrated stress response (ISR) in these structures after oxycodone exposure. Using MCF7 cells, we observed induction of the ISR and pro-apoptotic signaling after opioid treatment. We showed that the ISR inhibitor, ISRIB, suppresses opioid-induced Bax and CHOP expression in MCF7 cells. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our data suggest that chronic opioid administration may cause neuronal degeneration by activation of the integrated stress response leading to induction of apoptotic signaling in neurons and also by promoting demyelination in CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruping Fan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Lisa M. Schrott
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Thomas Arnold
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Stephen Snelling
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Meghana Rao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Derrel Graham
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Angela Cornelius
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
| | - Nadejda L. Korneeva
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, USA
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18
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Salem H, Barton T, Ali T, Anderson A, Teixeira AL. Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-induced toxic leukoencephalopathy: a case report. PSYCHIAT CLIN PSYCH 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/24750573.2017.1407562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Haitham Salem
- Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Travis Barton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Taha Ali
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ashley Anderson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Antonio L Teixeira
- Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
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19
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Shrot S, Poretti A, Tucker EW, Soares BP, Huisman TA. Acute brain injury following illicit drug abuse in adolescent and young adult patients: spectrum of neuroimaging findings. Neuroradiol J 2017; 30:144-150. [PMID: 28424016 DOI: 10.1177/1971400917691994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of illicit drugs is currently a major medical problem among adolescents. Several illicit drugs have a high abuse potential and can be neurotoxic causing high morbidity and mortality. The clinical manifestation of adolescents with acute drug-induced neurotoxicity is often characterized by non-specific symptoms and findings. Early diagnosis is important to prevent death and permanent long-term neurological impairments. We report on clinical and neuroimaging findings in five adolescents with acute brain imaging following illicit drug intoxication to highlight the role of neuroimaging findings in the diagnostic work-up of pediatric acute drug-induced neurotoxicity. Our patients reveal two main neuroimaging patterns of brain injury: diffuse symmetric subcortical white matter injury with preferential cerebellar involvement (leukoencephalopathy pattern) or multiple foci of ischemic infarctions in a non-arterial territory distribution (ischemic pattern). Familiarity with these two neuroimaging patterns of findings in the evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging studies in adolescents with acutely altered mental status may suggest the correct diagnosis, narrow the differential diagnosis, and consequently allow early initiation of targeted laboratory investigations and treatment, potentially improving outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shai Shrot
- 1 Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA
| | - Andrea Poretti
- 1 Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA
| | - Elizabeth W Tucker
- 2 Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA.,3 Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, USA
| | - Bruno P Soares
- 1 Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA
| | - Thierry Agm Huisman
- 1 Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA
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20
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Li W, Li Q, Wang Y, Zhu J, Ye J, Yan X, Li Y, Chen J, Liu J, Li Z, Wang W, Liu Y. Methadone-induced Damage to White Matter Integrity in Methadone Maintenance Patients: A Longitudinal Self-control DTI Study. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19662. [PMID: 26794650 DOI: 10.1038/srep19662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) can induce impairments in brain function and structure, despite its clinical effectiveness. However, the effect of chronic MMT on brain white matter (WM) is not fully known. Thirty-three MMT patients underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) twice – at the start of the study (Scan1) and one year later (Scan2). Tract-based spatial statistics were used to investigate changes in fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD) between the two scans. The correlations between DTI indices and methadone consumption and neuropsychological status were analysed. We found significantly decreased FA, decreased AD and increased RD in Scan2 in extensive WM regions; overlapping regions were found in the left posterior limb and the retrolenticular part of internal capsule, superior and posterior corona radiata, bilateral external capsule and the right superior longitudinal fasciculus. In addition, the change of FA in the overlapping regions was positively correlated with the accumulated dosage of methadone use, the RD value in Scan2 and non-planning impulsiveness (NPI) measured at follow-up. The results suggest that methadone has damaging effects on WM integrity. The dose-dependent pattern and characteristics of the impairment may suggest new strategies for MMT.
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21
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Reisner A, Hayes LL, Holland CM, Wrubel DM, Kebriaei MA, Geller RJ, Baum GR, Chern JJ. Opioid overdose in a child: case report and discussion with emphasis on neurosurgical implications. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2015; 16:752-7. [PMID: 26339960 DOI: 10.3171/2015.4.peds14667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In environments in which opioids are increasingly abused for recreation, children are becoming more at risk for both accidental and nonaccidental intoxication. In toxic doses, opioids can cause potentially lethal acute leukoencephalopathy, which has a predilection for the cerebellum in young children. The authors present the case of a 2-year-old girl who suffered an accidental opioid overdose, presenting with altered mental status requiring cardiorespiratory support. She required emergency posterior fossa decompression, partial cerebellectomy, and CSF drainage due to cerebellar edema compressing the fourth ventricle. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of surgical decompression used to treat cerebellar edema associated with opioid overdose in a child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Reisner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine;,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine;,Pediatric Neurosurgical Associates, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Laura L Hayes
- Department of Radiology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Scottish Rite Hospital
| | | | - David M Wrubel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine;,Pediatric Neurosurgical Associates, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Meysam A Kebriaei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota
| | - Robert J Geller
- Georgia Poison Center;,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Griffin R Baum
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Joshua J Chern
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine;,Pediatric Neurosurgical Associates, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia; and
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22
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Roy DN, Goswami R. Drugs of abuse and addiction: A slippery slope toward liver injury. Chem Biol Interact 2015; 255:92-105. [PMID: 26409324 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2015.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Substances of abuse induce alteration in neurobehavioral symptoms, which can lead to simultaneous exacerbation of liver injury. The biochemical changes of liver are significantly observed in the abused group of people using illicit drugs or drugs that are abused. A huge amount of work has been carried out by scientists for validation experiments using animal models to assess hepatotoxicity in cases of drugs of abuse. The risk of hepatotoxicity from these psychostimulants has been determined by different research groups. Hepatotoxicity of these drugs has been recently highlighted and isolated case reports always have been documented in relation to misuse of the drugs. These drugs induce liver toxicity on acute or chronic dose dependent process, which ultimately lead to liver damage, acute fatty infiltration, cholestatic jaundice, liver granulomas, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis etc. Considering the importance of drug-induced hepatotoxicity as a major cause of liver damage, this review emphasizes on various drugs of abuse and addiction which induce hepatotoxicity along with their mechanism of liver damage in clinical aspect as well as in vitro and in vivo approach. However, the mechanisms of drug-induced hepatotoxicity is dependent on reactive metabolite formation via metabolism, modification of covalent bonding between cellular components with drug and its metabolites, reactive oxygen species generation inside and outside of hepatocytes, activation of signal transduction pathways that alter cell death or survival mechanism, and cellular mitochondrial damage, which leads to alteration in ATP generation have been notified here. Moreover, how the cytokines are modulated by these drugs has been mentioned here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dijendra Nath Roy
- Department of Bio Engineering, National Institute of Technology (NIT)-Agartala, West Tripura, Tripura 799046, India.
| | - Ritobrata Goswami
- Institute of Life Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
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23
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Muzar Z, Lozano R, Schneider A, Adams PE, Faradz SMH, Tassone F, Hagerman RJ. Methadone use in a male with the FMRI premutation and FXTAS. Am J Med Genet A 2015; 167:1354-9. [PMID: 25900641 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.37030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is caused by the premutation in FMR1 gene. Recent reports of environmental toxins appear to worsen the progression of FXTAS. Here we present a case of male adult with FXTAS and a long history of methadone use. The patient shows a faster progression in both symptoms of disease and MRI changes compared to what is typically seen in FXTAS. There has been no research regarding the role of narcotics in onset, progression, and severity of FXTAS symptoms. However, research has shown that narcotics can have a negative impact on several neurodegenerative diseases, and we hypothesize that in this particular case, methadone may have contributed to a faster progression of FXTAS as well as exacerbating white matter disease through RNA toxicity seen in premutation carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zukhrofi Muzar
- Center for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Medicine Diponegoro University Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia.,Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Reymundo Lozano
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California.,Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Andrea Schneider
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California.,Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Patrick E Adams
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California.,Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Sultana M H Faradz
- Center for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Medicine Diponegoro University Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia
| | - Flora Tassone
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California at Davis, Davis, Califonia
| | - Randi J Hagerman
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California.,Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
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24
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Metkees
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Indu Rekha Meesa
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ashok Srinivasan
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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25
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Abstract
In this article, we report two cases of acute toxic leukoencephalopathy to highlight this acute clinicoradiological syndrome as an important, although uncommon, consideration in the undifferentiated comatose patient who fails to wake following drug overdose or has unexplained neurology with a history of drug exposure. We then review the current literature and discuss potential differential diagnoses in this setting, along with proposed treatments for this condition. The cases presented demonstrate a more fulminant onset than previously well-defined acute toxic leukoencephalopathy subtypes and highlight the prognostic importance of magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing a condition from which significant functional recovery seems possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. L. Holyoak
- Intensive Care Unit, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
| | - M. J. Trout
- Intensive Care Unit, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
| | - R. P. White
- Intensive Care Unit, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
- Department of Neurology, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
| | - S. Prematuranga
- Intensive Care Unit, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
- Department of Radiology, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
| | - S. Senthuran
- Intensive Care Unit, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland
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26
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Abstract
We present the case of a 14-year-old girl with a biphasic course after oxycodone ingestion. Clinically, she had a rapid return to baseline after initial ingestion and presented a week later with new-onset ballism, akathisia, and encephalopathy. Neuroimaging demonstrated bilateral globi pallidi and cerebellar lesions with a relative decrease of metabolite peaks on magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Her movement disorder was treated successfully with valproic acid and clonidine. Her cognitive functioning returned to baseline 3 months after ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Beatty
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Division of Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA.
| | - Ping-Ru Ko
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Division of Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - Jason Nixon
- Department of Radiology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA; Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Sidney M Gospe
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Division of Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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27
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Alaee A, Zarghami M, Farnia S, Khademloo M, Khoddad T. Comparison of brain white matter hyperintensities in methamphetamine and methadone dependent patients and healthy controls. Iran J Radiol 2014; 11:e14275. [PMID: 25035700 PMCID: PMC4090641 DOI: 10.5812/iranjradiol.14275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2013] [Revised: 12/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have proven the development of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) in methamphetamine and opioid users. Opiates and methamphetamines (MA) are the most common addictive agents in Iran. The adverse effects of drugs on the CNS is of concern to specialists and researchers, and given that the neurotoxicity associated with methamphetamine is greater than opioids, it is hypothesized that the severity of WMH in patients with methamphetamine dependence is more than opioid drug-dependent individuals. Objectives: To our knowledge, this is the first research comparing the effect of methamphetamine and methadone (M) on the brain. Patients and Methods: In a historical cohort study, we compared WMH in the brain MRI of 50 methamphetamine-dependent patients, 50 methadone-dependent patients and 50 healthy volunteers who were matched for age, sex and dominant hand. Results: WMH was detected in 18 methamphetamine users, in 12 methadone users and in seven controls (P = 0.038). The site of brain lesions in MA users was mostly in the frontal lobe in 17 cases, in M users in the frontal lobe in 12 cases and in the control group, it was in the parietal lobe in four cases (P=0.001). The frontal lobes were the predominant locations of WMH in MA and M groups (P = 0.001). The frequency of brain lesions was mostly in the deep WM in 18 cases in MA users, in 12 cases in M users and in two cases in the control group (P=0.007). Hyper-signal foci of deep WM in the MA group were grade I (punctuate) in 12 cases, grade II (beginning confluence) in five cases and grade III (large confluent) in four cases. In the M group, there were six cases in grade I, three cases in grade II and one case in grade III. In the control group, there were three grade I cases, two grade II cases, and no grade III cases. Except for periventricular WMH (P = 0.13), there were statistical significant differences in the deep WMH (P = 0.007) and subcortex WMH (P = 0.01) between the three groups. The history of using other drugs and the duration of MA and M consumption were similar. The prevalence of brain lesions was generally higher in both drug user groups compared with the healthy controls. Increased WMH in the MA group was higher than the M group. Conclusions: A greater number of blood flow defects and ischemic lesions in the brain of MA users compared to opiate users may explain the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrasool Alaee
- Department of Radiology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Corresponding author: Abdulrasool Alaee, Department of Radiology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. Tel: +98-9111515116, Fax: +98 151 2202699, E-mail:
| | - Mehran Zarghami
- Department of Psychiatry, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Samaneh Farnia
- Department of Psychiatry, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khademloo
- Department of Community Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Talayeh Khoddad
- Department of Traditional Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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28
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Zheng Z, Xiao Z, Shi X, Ding M, Di W, Qi W, Zhang A, Fang Y. White matter lesions in chronic migraine with medication overuse headache: a cross-sectional MRI study. J Neurol 2014; 261:784-90. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7267-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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29
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Abstract
As in many fields of neuroscience, alterations in brain morphology, and specifically gray matter volume and cortical thickness, have been repeatedly linked to chronic pain disorders. Numerous studies have shown changes in cortical and subcortical brain regions suggesting a dynamic process that may be a result of chronic pain or contributing to a more generalized phenomenon in chronic pain including comorbid anxiety and depression. In this review, we provide a perspective of pain as an innate state of pain based on alterations in structure and by inference, brain function. A better neurobiological understanding of gray matter changes will contribute to our understanding of how structural changes contribute to chronic pain (disease driver) and how these changes may be reversed (disease modification or treatment).
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Affiliation(s)
- David Borsook
- Center for Pain and the Brain, P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, c/o 9 Hope Avenue, Waltham, MA, USA
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30
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Abstract
Toxic leukoencephalopathy is attributed to exposure to a wide variety of agents, including systemic chemotherapy, cranial irradiation, illicit drug abuse, and toxins from the environment. Diagnosis of this disease requires documented exposure to a toxin, neurobehavioral deficits, and typical neuroimaging abnormalities. Intoxication by compounds extracted from yam bean seeds may mimic cyanide poisoning but fail to respond to antidotal therapy. We report a 54-year-old Chinese woman who developed disturbed consciousness after eating 40 pieces of yam bean seeds. Head computed tomography obtained 24 hours after the episode was normal. However, magnetic resonance imaging obtained 20 days after the episode revealed symmetrical faint high signal over the bilateral periventricular white matter on T1-weighted image, which turned into diffuse and symmetrical bright high signal on FLAIR. The diagnosis of this patient was toxic leukoencephalopathy by yam bean seeds intoxication. The changes in brain images after yam bean seeds intoxication have not ever been reported. Physicians in Asia and the Pacific islands should have a high index of suspicion when they care for patients with acute confusion and a high anion gap metabolic acidosis but normal serum cyanide level.
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31
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Abstract
The report begins with the case of an 18-year-old male who presented to a community hospital with difficulty walking and speaking. His illicit drug use history included smoking heroin. After admission to the hospital, a thorough workup was consistent with toxic heroin related leukoencephalopathy. The young man continued to decline and died approximately 2 months after his initial presentation and diagnosis. An autopsy and a thorough neuropathology examination were completed. Sections through the cerebral hemispheres and the cerebellum revealed diffuse and profound softening and discoloration of the white matter, most prominently in the occipital lobes. Microscopically, there was vacuolization and spongiosis of the white matter. The pathologic findings were consistent with the diagnosis of toxic or heroin related leukoencephalopathy. Toxic leukoencephalopathy is a rare disorder of unknown etiology linked to the smoking of heroin, known as “chasing the dragon.” The exact mechanism of the disorder is unknown, but it is thought that impurities cut into the heroin may become toxic substances upon sublimation, as the disorder is not seen with injected heroin. Currently, therapy is supportive with no effective cures available. The natural history of the disorder is variable, with an approximately 25% mortality rate. The popularity of smoking heroin is growing in the United States, and it is particularly seen with increasing frequency in new heroin users. Thus, this is an important, and likely increasingly common, effect of illicit drug use that should be recognized by forensic pathologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa S. Krinsky
- University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, and New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator in Albuquerque
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Rochester, MN (RRR)
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Wang C, Chen C, Wang S, Wu S. Cation-selective exhaustive injection and sweeping micellar electrokinetic chromatography for the analysis of methadone and its metabolites in serum of heroin addicts. J Chromatogr A 2011; 1218:6832-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2011.07.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Cerase A, Leonini S, Bellini M, Chianese G, Venturi C. Methadone-induced toxic leukoencephalopathy: diagnosis and follow-up by magnetic resonance imaging including diffusion-weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient maps. J Neuroimaging 2010; 21:283-6. [PMID: 20977538 DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2010.00530.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Effects of methadone misuse have been rarely described. The purpose of this case report is to increase the knowledge of methadone-related leukoencephalopathy. METHODS We report the long-term follow-up by brain magnetic resonance imaging including isotropic diffusion-weighted imaging and mean apparent diffusion coefficient values of a 49-year-old patient who attempted suicide by intravenous methadone. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Lesion pattern included subtle cerebellar involvement, mainly reversible extensive bilateral and symmetric brain involvement, cystic degeneration in the periventricular regions, sparing of corpus callosum and subcortical U-fibers, development of diffuse brain atrophy, and clear-cut clinical improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfonso Cerase
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy.
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