Publication

Xylometazoline abuse induced ischemic stroke in a young adult

Journal Paper/Review - Jan 1, 2011

Units
PubMed
Doi

Citation
Leupold D, Wartenberg K. Xylometazoline abuse induced ischemic stroke in a young adult. Neurologist 2011; 17:41-3.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (English)
Journal
Neurologist 2011; 17
Publication Date
Jan 1, 2011
Issn Electronic
2331-2637
Pages
41-3
Brief description/objective

INTRODUCTION
substance abuse is an important cause of ischemic stroke in the young. This includes over-the-counter dietary supplements and cough and cold remedies, which were reported to be an independent risk factor for hemorrhagic stroke.

CASE REPORT
this article describes a young male patient with acute ischemic infarctions in the posterior inferior cerebellar and posterior cerebral artery territories bilaterally, the right cerebral peduncle, the left pontine tegmentum, and lateral pons following abuse of xylometazoline-containing nasal decongestant for 10 years.

CONCLUSION
this is the first report in the literature of posterior circulation strokes because of chronic xylometazoline abuse. We hope to contribute to increase knowledge and awareness of the public about these serious complications of cough-and-cold remedies as well as dietary supplements containing sympathomimetics.