A case of subacute combined degeneration of spinal cord caused by inhaling laughing gas
10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20201019-00585
- VernacularTitle:吸食笑气致脊髓亚急性联合变性一例
- Author:
Yang LIU
1
;
Zhiye WANG
;
Zuonian ZHANG
;
Mengyuan NI
;
Zhaomin LU
;
Xijin PAN
Author Information
1. 210039 南京梅山医院神经科
- Keywords:
Inhalant abuse;
Poisoning;
Laughing gas;
Nitrous oxide;
Subacute combined degeneration of spinal cord
- From:
Chinese Journal of Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Diseases
2021;39(11):868-870
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Laughing gas (Nitrogen monoxide) is currently abused due to its low price and easy availability. This article discussed the clinical manifestations of a patient with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord caused by inhalation of laughing gas. The patient developed numbness of extremities, unstable walking, and decreased serum vitamin B 12 level. MRI of the cervical spine showed abnormal signals in the lateral and posterior cords of the cervical spinal cord (C2-6) , neuroelectrophysiological examination showed peripheral nerve damage in the extremities. After treatment with vitamin B 12 supplementation, the patient's condition gradually improved. Clinicians diagnose subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord, especially when the patient has no gastrointestinal disease, diet, malnutrition, etc., they need to carefully inquire about the history of nitrous oxide inhalation to avoid missed diagnosis.
