Systemic AA Amyloidosis Associated With Intravenous Injection of Oral Prescription Opioids—An Autopsy Case Report. (10th June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zabel, Kenneth M.; Lin, Grace Y.; Sell, Rebecca E.; Aisagbonhi, Omonigho
• Is Part Of: American journal of forensic medicine & pathology. Volume 43:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 191
• Page End: 194
• Publication Date: 2022-06-10
• Subjects: systemic amyloidosis -- prescription opioids -- autopsy -- excipient lung disease -- forensic pathology; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Forensic pathology -- Periodicals; 614.105
• DOI: 10.1097/PAF.0000000000000718
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-7910

Abstract

Abstract: There are reports of AA amyloidosis associated with intravenous and/or subcutaneous injection of street drugs, such as heroin and cocaine. Most reports describe patients with substance use disorder, renal amyloidosis and concurrent viral infections, such as hepatitis and/or human immunodeficiency virus. Herein, we present a case of systemic AA amyloidosis and sepsis in a 34-year-old woman with a history of intravenous injection of oral prescription medications (as evidenced by excipient lung disease) who had no known history of human immunodeficiency virus nor of hepatitis B or C. Our case shows the broader spectrum of pathology that can occur with the misuse of prescription medications.