Recognizing Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome in Pediatric Patients: Insights From a Case Report

TL;DR

A case report shows that cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, linked to chronic cannabis use, can cause severe vomiting in teenagers and highlights the need for better recognition and treatment in pediatric care.

Contribution

This case report emphasizes the importance of diagnosing cannabis hyperemesis syndrome in adolescents and suggests the need for pediatric-specific diagnostic criteria.

Findings

A 16.5-year-old male with chronic cannabis use was diagnosed with cannabis hyperemesis syndrome after ruling out other causes.

Symptoms resolved after stopping cannabis use and receiving supportive care.

The case underscores the rising prevalence of CHS in adolescents and the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers.

Abstract

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition characterized by recurrent episodes of severe nausea and vomiting associated with chronic cannabis use. This case report describes a 16.5-year-old male patient who presented with a 2-year history of recurrent vomiting episodes lasting up to 10 days, accompanied by abdominal pain and weight loss. After extensive diagnostic workup and exclusion of other causes, CHS was diagnosed based on the temporal relationship between cannabis use and symptom onset. The patient's symptoms resolved with supportive care and cessation of cannabis use. This case highlights the importance of considering CHS in the differential diagnosis of recurrent vomiting in adolescents, especially given the increasing cannabis use and potency among youth. Key aspects of CHS pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management are discussed, emphasizing the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers and a multidisciplinary approach to effectively treat this complex condition in pediatric populations. The growing prevalence of CHS in adolescents suggests the need for specific pediatric diagnostic criteria in future iterations of clinical guidelines.

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