[Complications of intestinal transporting of cocaine packets. Study of 215 cases].
BACKGROUND
To analyse clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management in the "body packer syndrome".


METHODS
We collected 215 patients who had ingested packets of cocaine.


RESULTS
Bowel obstruction, haemorrhagic complications and seizures were observed in 5.1, 4.2 and 2.3%, respectively. Toxic manifestations of cocaine occurred in 4 patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Radiographs of abdomen are necessary for diagnosis and follow-up. Close surveillance in necessary to identify intestinal obstruction or acute intoxication by cocaine.
Gómez Antúnez
M
M
Departamento de Medicina Interna, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid.
Cuenca Carvajal
C
C
Farfán Sedano
A
A
Villalba
M V
MV
del Toro Cervera
J
J
García Castaño
J
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003042:Cocaine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000633:toxicity; D003415:Crime; D005260:Female; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000150:complications; D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D007410:Intestinal Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012640:Seizures / Q000139:chemically induced
D003042:Cocaine