Cocaine and the critical care challenge.
OBJECTIVE
Cocaine, which first made its appearance >1,000 yrs ago, is now widely used throughout the world. The physiologic responses to cocaine may cause severe pathologic effects. This review highlights the many critical care challenges resulting from these effects.


METHODS
Historical vignettes, epidemiologic factors, modes of preparation and delivery, and the physiologic and pharmacologic effects of these agents are presented.


METHODS
Cocaine causes intense vasoconstriction, which potentially causes damage to all organ systems. Examples of these toxicities are presented.


METHODS
The adverse multisystem responses to cocaine exposure produce organ failure, which challenges diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic intervention. Organ system failure involves the brain, heart, lung, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, musculature, and other organs. These harmful effects are additive to preexisting organ dysfunction.


METHODS
Recognition of associated cocaine injury alerts the physician that organ dysfunction is more likely to occur and to be more severe. Such anticipation helps plan for therapy in the critical care setting.


CONCLUSIONS
Cocaine use is an expanding health hazard, despite intense governmental efforts to contain its distribution and use. Recognition of the signs and symptoms of cocaine toxicity help anticipate the subsequent organ dysfunction and implement earlier organ system support.
Shanti
Christina M
CM
Department of Surgery, Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State University School of Medicine, 4201 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
Lucas
Charles E
CE
D003042:Cocaine / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000506:poisoning*; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology; D003422:Critical Care; D062787:Drug Overdose / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology
D003042:Cocaine