Publication

Body packing: from seizures to laparotomy

Journal Paper/Review - Mar 26, 2015

Units
PubMed
Doi

Citation
Janczak J, Beutner U, Hasler K. Body packing: from seizures to laparotomy. Case Rep Emerg Med 2015; 2015:208047.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (English)
Journal
Case Rep Emerg Med 2015; 2015
Publication Date
Mar 26, 2015
Issn Print
2090-648X
Pages
208047
Brief description/objective

Body packing is a common method for illegal drug trafficking. Complications associated with body packing can be severe and even lead to rapid death. Thus, a timely diagnosis is warranted. As most body packers initially do not show any symptoms, making a correct diagnosis can be rather challenging. We describe a case of a 41-year-old male, who was admitted with an epileptic seizure and who turned out to be a cocaine intoxicated body packer. Due to neurological and cardiovascular deterioration an emergency surgery was performed. Four bags of cocaine could be removed. We discuss the current management regimen in symptomatic and asymptomatic body packers and highlight pearls and pitfalls with diagnosis and treatment.