Retinal Vascular Complications in Cocaine Abuse: A Case Report and a Literature Review
2024

Retinal Vascular Complications in Cocaine Abuse

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Armentano Marta, Alisi Ludovico, Visioli Giacomo, Saturno Maria Carmela, Barba Arianna, Speranzini Alessio, Albanese Giuseppe Maria, Gharbiya Magda, Iannetti Ludovico

Primary Institution: Department of Sense Organs, Medicine and Dentistry Faculty, Sapienza University of Rome

Hypothesis

This study aims to explore the ocular vascular complications associated with cocaine use.

Conclusion

Cocaine abuse can lead to severe retinal complications, including frosted branch angiitis and ischemia.

Supporting Evidence

  • Cocaine can cause severe retinal ischemia and vascular complications.
  • The case highlights the importance of considering cocaine abuse in retinal diagnoses.
  • Retinal vascular occlusions are significant complications linked to cocaine use.
  • Vascular changes from cocaine can lead to irreversible vision impairment.
  • Electroretinographic abnormalities have been observed in cocaine-addicted patients.

Takeaway

Cocaine can hurt your eyes and cause serious problems with your vision, like bleeding and swelling in the retina.

Methodology

The study presents a case report of a 48-year-old man with cocaine abuse and reviews existing literature on cocaine's effects on retinal health.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported substance use and the rarity of the condition.

Limitations

The case report is based on a single patient, limiting the generalizability of the findings.

Participant Demographics

A 48-year-old Caucasian male with a history of cocaine abuse.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/jcm13247838

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