Consumption of Cannabis as a Risk Factor for Ischemic Stroke – a Case Report

Czech version

Authors: L. Loudová ¹; L. Martinkovič ²; J. Mikuláš ³; J. Kasík ¹
Authors‘ workplace: Neurologické oddělení, ÚVN – Vojenská fakultní nemocnice Praha ¹; Neurologická klinika 2. LF UK a FN v Motole, Praha ²; Psychiatrické oddělení, ÚVN – Vojenská fakultní nemocnice Praha ³
Published in: Cesk Slov Neurol N 2013; 76/109(5): 637-640
Category: Case Report

Overview

Introduction:
The association between chronic use of cannabis and ischemic stroke has not been firmly established. Cases have been reported of ischemic stroke after consumption of cannabis. The proposed aetiological mechanisms of such stroke include cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, systemic hypotension and cerebral vasculitis.

Case study:
We present a case of 27-year-old man, chronic cannabis user who developed acute ischemia in the posterior brain circulation. In the discussion, we discuss possible pathogenetic mechanisms of stroke after cannabis consumption.

Conclusion:
There appears to be a link between marihuana consumption and an onset of ischaemic stroke, although we cannot fully exclude other aetiologies. Therefore, we recommend routine toxicology examination in all young patients with stroke.

Key words:
cannabinoids – ischemic stroke – vasospasms

The authors declare they have no potential conflicts of interest concerning drugs, products, or services used in the study.

The Editorial Board declares that the manuscript met the ICMJE “uniform requirements” for biomedical papers.

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