[Marijuana smoking and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation].

BACKGROUND

Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in Israel, and unlike most of the other illegal drugs, it is common among segments of the population with higher demographic characteristics.

METHODS

A healthy 20 year old male patient, with two previous admissions with atrial fibrillation, was admitted to the emergency room with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The patient presented evidence of cannabis abuse, and no other pathologic cause for atrial fibrillation. Sinus rhythm was restored and the patient was discharged.

CONCLUSIONS

Cannabis abuse is responsible for a wide range of pathologies, including cognitive impairment, a rise in the prevalence of lung, head and neck tumors, atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and an increase in the risk of ischemic cardiovascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

Cannabis abuse can induce atrial fibrillation in predisposed patients. Good practice may consider the inclusion of cannabis abuse tests in young patients admitted due to atrial fibrillation, and definite medical advice to stop the drug abuse.