Reversible delayed leukoencephalopathy after heroin intoxication with hypoxia: a case report

Acta Neurol Taiwan. 2009 Sep;18(3):198-202.

Abstract

Delayed neurological deterioration after hypoxia is uncommon. Here we report a case of reversible delayed leukoencephalopathy following intravenous heroin intoxication with hypoxia. A 42-year-old man presented disturbed consciousness and unstable hemodynamic status after intravenous heroin injection. He made a good initial recovery after infection control and hemodynamic support. But his neurological condition deteriorated later on and gradually progressed into akinetic mutism and generalized hypertonia within 3 weeks. Prominent leukoencephalopathy was disclosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. His general condition improved again in a few months and follow-up MRI revealed regression of the white matter lesion. Early diagnosis of delayed leukoencephalopathy with appropriate supportive treatment may be worthwhile as illustrated by the reported case.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain / pathology
  • Heroin Dependence / complications*
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia / complications*
  • Leukoencephalopathies / diagnosis
  • Leukoencephalopathies / etiology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male