Acute Irreversible Hippocampal Toxic Encephalopathy Secondary to Cannabis Use: A Case Report

Abstract

This case report presents a rare and severe complication of cannabis use in a 32-year-old male patient. The patient presented with status epilepticus and was found to have acute irreversible hippocampal toxic encephalopathy confirmed by MRI. Despite aggressive treatment with sedation and anti-epileptic therapy up to quad therapy, the patient's seizures were refractory to treatment. The patient initially regained consciousness, but later suffered a relapse of status epilepticus and respiratory distress. This case highlights the importance of considering acute irreversible hippocampal toxic encephalopathy as a potential complication of chronic cannabis use, and the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of this serious and potentially life-threatening condition.