Severe obstructive pattern mimicking an asthma exacerbation as first presentation of crack smoking: A case report

Abstract

Crack inhalation is known to cause a wide spectrum of acute and chronic pulmonary complications, along with imaging manifestations and lung function patterns. The diagnosis of these conditions is often delayed or mistaken. Only little information about the management and follow up of these pulmonary complications is available in literature. We present the case of a young patient referred to our clinic for symptoms mimicking an asthma exacerbation, not responsive to inhalant treatment. After investigations and the admission of crack abuse by the patient a final diagnosis of bronchiolitis crack-related was made. The patient was then followed for more than a year showing that lung function tests may be useful both for the diagnosis and follow up of such pulmonary complications.