The Acute Pulmonary Edema of Heroin Intoxication

Thirty-nine cases of heroin-related disease admitted to The Johns Hopkins Hospital between January 1964 and April 1969 are discussed. Among the current heroin users, 10 suffered the acute intoxication syndrome. In 8 of these a severe but rapidly clearing pulmonary edema developed. The radiographic appearance of a bilateral edema pattern is illustrated. Evidence of seasonal variation in the occurrence of this reaction is cited in suppport of hypersensitivity as a possible etiology.