[Heroin-induced pulmonary oedema].
BACKGROUND
Heroin-induced pulmonary oedema is an infrequent complication to a heroin overdose; the incidence in Norway is unknown.


METHODS
One case is presented and pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment are discussed.


RESULTS
Pulmonary oedema caused by the use of heroin may develop immediately or usually up to 1-2 hours after exposure. The symptoms usually resolve with supportive treatment within 1 or 2 days. Some patients require mechanical ventilation. The pathophysiology includes a rapid capillary leakage of unknown aetiology.


CONCLUSIONS
Heroin use is widespread in Norway, and users are found all over the country. There are important differences between cardiogenic and heroin-induced pulmonary oedema regarding pathophysiology and treatment.
Landsverk
Svein Aslak
SA
Anestesiavdelingen, Ullevål universitetssykehus, 0407 Oslo. sveinaslak.landsverk@ulleval.no
Granheim
Karen
K
Kirkebøen
Knut Arvid
KA
D000328:Adult; D062787:Drug Overdose; D006556:Heroin Dependence / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011654:Pulmonary Edema / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D011859:Radiography