Assessing The Pathologic Effect Of Methamphetamine Compounds On Heart Tissue Of Cadavers Of Forensic Medicine Center In 2014

Research Article
Shahrooz Kazemi, Fares Najari and Mehdi Modaberi
DOI: 
xxx-xxxxx-xxxx
Subject: 
Medicine
KeyWords: 
metamphethamin-cardiac death- forensic finding
Abstract: 

Objectives: Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant of the central nervous system that is widely used and the reports of its abuse is increasing day by day. Studies conducted on this subject have confirmed the potential relationship between methamphetamine and cardiomyopathy. The aim of this study is to show the relationship between methamphetamine and the incidence of cardiovascular pathologies. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study has been conducted on cadavers undergoing autopsy in Tehran Forensic Medicine Center in 2014. After positive toxicology results for methamphetamine, heart samples were sent to pathology for examining the presence or absence of cardiomyopathy. Needed information about the deceased were obtained from the medical records. Results: Among deceased who referred to Tehran Forensic Medicine Center in 2014, 58 cases had positive toxicology results for methamphetamine; of these, 22 (37.9%) had cardiomyopathy, and 36 patients (62.1%) did not. There was a significant relationship between age and the presence of cardiomyopathy and the mean heart weight was higher in individuals with cardiomyopathy. Conclusion: It seems that methamphetamine abuse is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular pathologies. In young patients with cardiac symptoms, cardiac pathologies should not be neglected. Responsible organizations such as educational systems and media can warn society regarding the risk of abusing these materials by creating assembled program