Renal infarction after cocaine abuse: a case report and review

Clin Nephrol. 2009 Sep;72(3):234-6. doi: 10.5414/cnp72234.

Abstract

A 36-year-old male presented with sudden pain in the left lower abdomen caused by a left renal infarction. Cocaine metabolites were found in the urine and a cocaine-induced renal infarction was diagnosed. Cocaine-induced renal infarction is not frequently reported in the literature. Pathophysiologic mechanisms include direct cocaine-induced platelet activation in combination with vasoconstriction and endothelial damage. There is no proven therapy for this complication.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cocaine-Related Disorders / complications*
  • Humans
  • Infarction / chemically induced*
  • Kidney / blood supply*
  • Male