Chronic Ketamine Toxicity Involving both Urinary and Hepatobiliary Systems.
Journal of the Belgian Society of Radiology – January 01, 2026
Source: PubMed
Summary
The less-recognized dangers of ketamine abuse extend to the liver and bile ducts, not just the urinary system. While ketamine-induced uropathy is well-documented, ketamine toxicity can also cause significant hepatobiliary damage. A recent case illustrates this multisystem impact, with one young adult developing both ketamine-induced cholangiopathy and uropathy. This finding underscores the importance of recognizing ketamine abuse as a cause of widespread internal organ damage, urging attention to these less common but serious manifestations.
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.