From the grocery store shelves to the neurologist's office: spinal cord effects of nitrous oxide

Neurocase. 2021 Aug;27(4):382-383. doi: 10.1080/13554794.2021.1967405. Epub 2021 Sep 1.

Abstract

We describe a patient who presented with subacute ascending numbness who we diagnosed with nitrous oxide toxicity from recreational drug abuse. Characteristic neuroimaging is presented and the diagnostic process for this condition is reviewed.

Keywords: “Myeloneuropathy”; “nitrous oxide abuse”; “nitrous oxide”; “spine lesion”; “subacute combined degeneration”.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neurologists
  • Nitrous Oxide* / adverse effects
  • Spinal Cord
  • Supermarkets*
  • Vitamin B 12

Substances

  • Nitrous Oxide
  • Vitamin B 12