Cannabis arteritis

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 May;58(5 Suppl 1):S65-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2007.04.024.

Abstract

Cannabis arteritis is a serious peripheral vascular disease affecting young adults consuming cannabis. An increasing number of cases have been recently reported in Europe. The risk of amputation is high. Cannabis arteritis is often confused with atherosclerosis. We present a new case in which complete arterial revascularization was obtained with early aspirin treatment. Cannabis arteritis should be therefore distinguished from peripheral arterial disease caused by atherosclerosis, which is typically not reversible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid an irreversible vascular occlusion and amputation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use
  • Arteritis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Arteritis / drug therapy
  • Arteritis / etiology*
  • Aspirin / therapeutic use
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Marijuana Abuse / complications*
  • Middle Aged
  • Necrosis
  • Toes / blood supply
  • Toes / pathology
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Aspirin