Chronic biliary colic associated with ketamine abuse

• Published in: International medical case reports journal Vol. 9; pp. 135 - 137
• Main Authors: Al-Nowfal, Ahmed, Al-Abed, Yahya A
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: 01.01.2016
• ISSN: 1179-142X; 1179-142X
• DOI: 10.2147/IMCRJ.S100648

INTRODUCTIONBiliary colic is a common clinical presentation, with the majority of cases being related to gallstone disease. However, rarely, patients may present with biliary symptoms without evidence of gallbladder stones - referred to as acalculous gallstone disease. This case report details a rare case of chronic biliary colic associated with ketamine abuse. CASE PRESENTATIONA 24-year-old Caucasian female presented to the emergency department with a history of intermittent right upper quadrant pain associated with nausea and malaise. She had experienced bouts of similar symptoms three times a year for the past 4 years. Various investigations had been conducted during her multiple admissions, which showed possible dilatation of the common bile duct, with no evidence of gallstones. CONCLUSIONPatients can present with a dilated common bile duct and an acalculous cholecystitis. This requires considerable investigation, with an emphasis on drug history, especially with the current rise of recreational hallucinogenic drug abuse.