Intracerebral Hemorrhage with Multiple Intracranial Arterial Stenoses in a Synthetic Cannabinoid "Spice" User

Asian J Neurosurg. 2018 Apr-Jun;13(2):522-524. doi: 10.4103/ajns.AJNS_48_16.

Abstract

Synthetic cannabinoids (spice), which are used frequently worldwide, are more potent than herbal compounds and also have more side effects in comparison. A 23-year-old male was admitted to the emergency unit with altered consciousness. There was no sign of trauma, and his medical history did not reveal any chronic illness. Computed tomography revealed a large frontal hematoma extending to the ventricular system. The outcomes of cerebral angiography were consistent with multiple intracranial arterial stenoses (MIAS) which can also be seen after cannabis usage. The patient made a good recovery with treatment, and during the follow-up, his medical condition was stable. In addition to the psychological symptoms, encephalopathy, ischemia, and seizures have also been described as side effects of synthetic cannabinoids. This paper reports an intracerebral hematoma due to synthetic cannabinoids and its association with MIAS.

Keywords: Intracerebral hemorrhage; multiple intracranial arterial stenoses; side effect; synthetic cannabinoid.

Publication types

  • Case Reports