Although pathologic findings are often reported in the literature, few images are available to support these findings, and reviews of cocaine cardiopathology are rare. We describe the major pathologic findings linked to cocaine abuse in earlier research, their underlying mechanisms, and the treatment approaches currently being used in this patient population.
A MEDLINE search was conducted to identify all English language articles from January 2000 to June 2008 with the subject headings and key words ‘cocaine’, ‘heart’,
‘toxicity’, and ‘cardiotoxicity’. Epidemiologic, laboratory, and clinical studies on the pathology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology of the effects of cocaine on the heart were reviewed, along with relevant treatment options. Reference lists were used to identify earlier studies on these topics, and related
Selleckchem Elafibranor articles from Google Scholar were also included.
There is an established connection between cocaine use and myocardial infarction (MI), arrhythmia, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Numerous mechanisms have been postulated to explain how cocaine contributes to these conditions. Among these, cocaine may lead to MI by causing coronary artery vasoconstriction and accelerated atherosclerosis, and by initiating thrombus formation. Cocaine has also been shown to block K(+) channels, increase L-type Ca(2+) channel current, and inhibit Na(+) influx during depolarization, all possible causes for arrhythmia. Additionally, cocaine use has been associated with left ventricular hypertrophy, myocarditis, and dilated cardiomyopathy, which Alvespimycin mouse can lead to heart failure if drug
use is Napabucasin continued.
Certain diagnostic tools, including ECG and serial cardiac markers, are not as accurate in identifying MI in cocaine users experiencing chest pain. As a result, clinicians should be suspicious of cocaine use in their differential diagnosis of chest pain, especially in the younger male population, and proceed more cautiously when use is suspected.
Treatment for cocaine-related cardiovascular disease is in many ways similar to treatment for traditional cardiovascular disease. However use of beta-receptor antagonists and class Ia and III anti-arrhythmics is strongly discouraged if the patient is likely to continue cocaine use, because of documented adverse effects.
The medical community is in urgent need of a pharmacologic adjunct to cocaine-dependence treatment that can deter relapse and reduce the risks associated with cardiovascular disease in these patients.”
“Study Design. Retrospective chart review.
Objective. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between necrotizing fasciitis (NF) and pressure ulcers, as well as the mortality, and complication rate, in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Summary of Background Data. Pressure ulcers represent a challenging problem, especially in immobilized patients.