Chronic Ketamine Toxicity Involving both Urinary and Hepatobiliary Systems.
Alexander Cotza, Liesbeth Meylaerts
Journal of the Belgian Society of Radiology January 1, 2026 DOI: 10.5334/jbsr.4197 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractChronic ketamine abuse can damage both the lower urinary tract and the hepatobiliary system. A case of a young adult with simultaneous ketamine-induced uropathy and cholangiopathy is reported, highlighting that ketamine toxicity should be considered a multisystem disorder. Radiologists are reminded to look for hepatobiliary involvement beyond the more familiar urinary tract injury.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | Young adult with chronic ketamine abuse |
| Keywords | Ketamine abuse Ketamine toxicity Ketamine-induced cholangiopathy Ketamine-induced uropathy |
| Key finding | Ketamine toxicity can cause concurrent uropathy and cholangiopathy, indicating it is a multisystem disorder. |
Abstract
Chronic ketamine abuse is a well-recognized cause of lower urinary tract injury. Hepatobiliary manifestations are less frequently reported. A case is presented of concomitant ketamine-induced uropathy and cholangiopathy in a young adult. This underscores the importance of considering ketamine toxicity as a multisystem disorder. Teaching point: Beyond the well-recognized urinary tract involvement, radiologists attention is drawn to hepatobiliary manifestations of chronic ketamine toxicity.