Sonographic findings in methamphetamine-induced ischemic colitis

Abstract

Ischemic colitis is a clinicopathologic condition that commonly occurs in elderly patients with atherosclerotic disease or diabetes mellitus. Uncommon etiologies include vasculitis and use of drugs such as oral contraceptives, phenobarbital, nasal decongestants, dextroamphetamine, and cocaine. Recent studies have shown sonography and CT to be helpful in the evaluation of the colitides. We report the sonographic and CT findings in an unusual case of methamphetamine-induced ischemic colitis. Sonography and CT revealed diffuse thickening of the large bowel wall. Methamphetamine abuse should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the colitides, particularly in the setting of a young patient with a history of drug use and no other predisposing conditions.