Gas necrosis and sepsis due to recreational ketamine use

Abstract

Although ketamine is an FDA-approved drug, its mechanism of action is not fully understood. Currently, there is an increase in its recreational use, causing irreparable social and physical damage. We report the case of a musician who developed sepsis due to gas necrosis in his arm after using veterinary ketamine purchased via the internet. Despite the amputation recommendation, it was possible to save the arm and preserve motor and sensory function. The scientific community, as well as the police and the government, must ponder the prescription, efficacy and safety of ketamine for medical treatments.