Peripheral neuropathy following nitrous oxide abuse.
Undifferentiated neurological presentations are not uncommon to the ED. Vitamin B (12) deficiency can lead to progressive demyelination and axonal lesions on the peripheral nerves and cervicothoracic spinal cord causing a peripheral neuropathy. Nitrous oxide is a common adjuvant to anaesthesia in the ED but it not often thought of as a drug of abuse. A case is reported of prolonged and intensive nitrous oxide abuse that resulted in the development of a peripheral neuropathy.
Richardson
Philip G
PG
Department of Emergency Medicine, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Butterfield St., Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia. philip_richardson@health.qld.gov.au
D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009609:Nitrous Oxide / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications*
D009609:Nitrous Oxide