[Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome inducing acute prerenal failure and electrolyte disturbance]

Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 2011 Aug;136(34-35):1720-2. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1286065. Epub 2011 Aug 29.
[Article in German]

Abstract

History and clinical findings: A 36-year-old patient presented to the psychiatric clinic with presumed worsening of a chronic psychosis.

Investigations: Laboratory values revealed acute renal failure and electrolyte imbalance. A further diagnostic work-up including urine analysis as well as abdominal und retroperitoneal sonography was normal.

Diagnosis, therapy and clinical course: By exact history taking the clinical diagnosis of a cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) was established. Symptomatic treatment with intravenous fluids and electrolytes together with strict cannabis abstinence completely resolved all symptoms and normalized all pathologic values.

Conclusion: Recreational use of cannabis is widespread. It may induce a widely unknown syndrome characterized by nausea, vomiting and crampy abdominal pain accompanied by frequent hot showers or bathing. This syndrome should be recognized as a potential cause of acute prerenal failure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acute Kidney Injury / chemically induced*
  • Acute Kidney Injury / diagnosis
  • Adult
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dronabinol / toxicity*
  • Humans
  • Kidney Function Tests
  • Male
  • Marijuana Abuse / complications*
  • Marijuana Abuse / diagnosis
  • Psychotropic Drugs / toxicity*
  • Schizophrenia, Paranoid / diagnosis
  • Vomiting / chemically induced*
  • Water-Electrolyte Imbalance / chemically induced
  • Water-Electrolyte Imbalance / diagnosis

Substances

  • Psychotropic Drugs
  • Dronabinol