[A body packer with cannabis]. / Een bodypacker met cannabis.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In recent years, numerous reports have been published on body packers, i.e. people who use their own body to transport drugs. Most body packers swallow small packages of cocaine or heroin. CASE DESCRIPTION We describe the case of a patient who, two days after ingestion of packages containing cannabis, was admitted for dizziness and drowsiness. Urinalysis was positive for cannabis and negative for other drugs. The deterioration in clinical status possibly indicated a burst package. The packages were surgically removed and the patient made a full recovery. CONCLUSION: Some body packers transport other drugs than cocaine or heroin, such as cannabis. In body packers who ingest cannabis, depressed consciousness is a main symptom of intoxication. They should be admitted and monitored for symptoms of intoxication or paralytic ileus. Laboratory tests provide qualitative support when interpreting clinical symptoms. Surgical intervention is indicated in cases of bowel obstruction or when intoxication due to package leakage is suspected.