Nitrous Oxide Poisoning Complicated by Syringomyelia: a Case Report
Lin Tan, Changhao Yin, Zhenqi Wang, Weina Zhao
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | A 21-year-old woman who abused nitrous oxide recreationally |
| Intervention | Nitrous oxide |
| Key findings | The authors propose that nitrous oxide abuse may be associated with syringomyelia, based on a single case in which a 21-year-old woman who heavily inhaled nitrous oxide developed progressive leg weakness and four-limb numbness with imaging findings interpreted as syringomyelia. They recommend cervical and thoracic MRI screening for people who abuse nitrous oxide. |
Abstract
Abstract Background: Nitrous oxide is a colorless, aromatic, inert organic gas with low toxicity and is currently abused in many recreational areas.Nitrous oxide abuse can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to neurological damage such as spinal neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy. Its abuse has not been associated with syringomyelia.Case presentation: We described the case of a 21-year-old young girl who presented with progressive weakness in both legs and numbness in four limbs after excessive recreational inhalation of nitrous oxide and her imaging findings were considered syringomyelia.Conclusion: Nitrous oxide abuse may be associated with syringomyelia, and that patients with nitrous oxide abuse should be further performed cervical and thoracic MRI to determine whether they have syringomyelia and give timely treatment.