DIAGNOSTIC INDICATORS IN THE EARLY RECOGNITION, OF SEVERE COCAINE INTOXICATION

Acute cocaine intoxication is an ever increasing problem in the United Kingdom. Aggressive resuscitation linked to early diagnosis is essent ial in preventing death. Three cases of severe cocaine toxicity are pr esented to highlight certain diagnostic indicators in recognising the condition in patients presenting in a collapsed state to the accident and emergency department. Acidosis was a striking feature. The acute m anagement of such patients is supportive and should involve methods to minimise continuing absorption.