Rare finding of acute eosinophilic pneumonia associated with heavy cannabis use: A case-report

Abstract

We describe the case of a 21-year-old male patient who presented with respiratory distress, abdominal pain and acute renal failure. The symptoms occurred after acute heavy cannabis consumption. Chest computed tomography showed pulmonary infiltrates and pleural effusions which led to further exploration, including bronchoalveolar lavage, that confirmed a rare diagnosis of acute eosinophilic pneumonia. This case highlights the importance of radiologists to consider the prospect of acute eosinophilic pneumonia in the diagnosis of cannabis-using patients with sudden chest pain or dyspnea, as correct diagnosis enables prompt treatment with corticosteroids and an often favorable outcome.

Keywords

• Acute eosinophilic pneumonia
• Cannabis
• Diagnostic imaging