Spinal cord injury after the use of ecstasy in a young male

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-020-0277-6 · Published: March 27, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Pharmacology Neurology

Simple Explanation

Ecstasy, a popular recreational drug, can lead to serious health complications including neurological issues. This case report describes a young man who experienced a spinal cord injury after using ecstasy. The spinal cord injury is likely due to the drug's effect on blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction and potentially leading to ischemia (reduced blood flow) in the spinal cord. This case highlights the importance of considering drug-related causes in unexplained spinal cord injuries and emphasizes the potential dangers of recreational ecstasy use.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One 19-year-old male

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
A 19-year-old male developed a T11 AIS B SCI/D (spinal cord injury/dysfunction) following recreational use of ecstasy.
2
MRI imaging was inconclusive due to artifacts from metallic rods used in a previous scoliosis surgery, making definitive diagnosis challenging.
3
The SCI/D is likely the result of an ischemic event caused by the vasoconstrictive effects of ecstasy ingestion.

Research Summary

This case report presents a 19-year-old male who developed a spinal cord injury after using ecstasy. The patient presented with rapidly progressive loss of motor function and dysesthesia in both lower extremities. Due to artifacts on MRI from previous scoliosis surgery, a definitive diagnosis was difficult to establish, but the injury is believed to be due to ischemia caused by vasoconstriction from the ecstasy. The case highlights the potential for severe and irreversible spinal cord damage from ecstasy use and stresses the importance of considering drug-related causes in unexplained SCI/D.

Practical Implications

Awareness of Ecstasy Risks

The report underscores the need to educate individuals about the severe neurological risks associated with recreational ecstasy use, including potentially irreversible spinal cord damage.

Differential Diagnosis

In cases of unexplained SCI/D, clinicians should consider drug-related causes, including ecstasy use, as part of their differential diagnosis.

Cautionary Advice

The authors strongly advise against the use of ecstasy and similar drugs, given the potential for devastating and life-altering consequences.

Study Limitations

1
MRI imaging was inconclusive due to artifacts from metallic spinal rods.
2
The case report involves only one patient, limiting generalizability.
3
The exact mechanism of injury could not be definitively confirmed due to imaging limitations.

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