ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 5

Acute Aortic Dissections and Ruptured Berry Aneurysms Associated with Methamphetamine Abuse
Swalwell, CI
Deputy Medical Examiner, Office of the Medical Examiner, CA

Davis, GG
Associate Coroner/Medical Examiner Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner's Office, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL

(Received 3 March 1994; accepted 18 March 1994)

Abstract

Sudden, unexpected death can occur following rupture of an artery weakened by aneurysmal dilatation or by medial dissection. In both of these diseases the arterial abnormality is exacerbated by hypertension. This arterial weakness could also be aggravated by the use of drugs with a hypertensive effect. We report seven cases of sudden death in patients abusing methamphetamine—four cases of ruptured berry aneurysms and three cases of aortic dissection with cardiac tamponade. The autopsy findings are reviewed, and various mechanisms are considered by which methamphetamine may contribute to death in such cases.

Keywords:
pathology and biology, methamphetamine, berry aneurysm, cerebral aneurysm, aortic dissection, cocaine

Paper ID: JFS13734J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13734J
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