Cannabis-Induced Diffuse Alveolar Haemorrhage: A Case Report From the Intensive Care Unit

TL;DR

A 26-year-old man developed a rare and severe lung condition possibly linked to cannabis use and a viral infection.

Contribution

This case report highlights cannabis as a potential, though rare, trigger for diffuse alveolar haemorrhage.

Findings

Cannabis use may be associated with diffuse alveolar haemorrhage when combined with a viral infection.

Other causes of the condition were ruled out in this case, supporting a possible link to cannabis.

The case underscores the need for awareness of cannabis-related lung complications.

Abstract

Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH) is a syndrome characterised by acute dyspnea, respiratory failure, diffuse alveolar infiltrates, haemoptysis, and anemia, which can be fatal without prompt treatment.

We present the case of a 26-year-old man with a clinical presentation of DAH and cannabis consumption. After investigation, other aetiologies were ruled out, suggesting cannabis use associated with a viral respiratory infection as the most probable cause.

Cannabis consumption has been previously documented in the literature as a potential trigger for DAH. Although rare, the clinical severity of this condition and the rising prevalence of cannabis use highlight the importance of raising awareness regarding this potential causal relationship.

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