What is it about?
GHB (γ-hydroxybutyrate) is a neuromodulator that acts as a metabolite of GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) and is usually present in the brain. GHB can be administered as a "recreational drug" due to its effects in the central nervous system, potentially leading to death. Herein, we report a case of acute intoxication in a young patient admitted with a history of drug and alcohol abuse and a negative urine drug screen.
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Why is it important?
The differential diagnosis of an acute GHB intoxication is broad and typically overlaps with other toxidromes. Besides, the standard urine drug screen panel does detect GHB (or any of its prodrugs). Awareness of this presentation is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely management.
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This page is a summary of: Case of Sudden Acute Coma Followed by Spontaneous Recovery, The Journal of Applied Laboratory Medicine, May 2018, AACC,
DOI: 10.1373/jalm.2017.025718.
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