Benita Tamrazi MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Jeevak Almast MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

The purpose of this educational exhibit is to present the central nervous system imaging findings associated with drugs of abuse as well as specific prescribed medications. Various drugs have serious complications affecting the brain, and it is critical to recognize these complications in order to provide prompt medical management for patients.

The CNS is a target organ for drugs of abuse as well as prescribed medications. In this educational exhibit, the imaging findings and complications associated with various drugs will be discussed. Specifically, the pathological CNS findings associated with cocaine, heroin, alcohol, and prescribed agents such as immunosuppressants and anti-seizure medication will be presented. Imaging abnormalities include neurovascular complications, atrophy, and white matter changes appreciated on MR and CT.

Drug abuse is a substantial problem in today’s society and it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It is critical for radiologists to recognize complications related to drugs of abuse as well as iatrogenic effects of various medications. Diagnostic imaging modalities such as MRI and CT can therefore play a critical role in the recognition and ultimately management of CNS associated drug related complications.

Tamrazi, B, Almast, J, This Is Your Brain on Drugs: Imaging of CNS Drug-related Changes.  Radiological Society of North America 2010 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2010 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2010/9001470.html