摘要
Background: Nitrous oxide (N 2 O) is a commonly used inhaled anesthetic in outpatient dental procedures. However, the increasing recreational use of N 2 O may result in vitamin B 12 deficiency-related neurologic and psychiatric symptoms. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the clinical features of chronic N 2 O abuse in pediatric patients. Methods: Patients under 20 years of age who were diagnosed with N 2 O-induced subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord from 2012 to 2018 were enrolled in this study. Clinical presentations, laboratory, imaging, ancillary studies, treatments and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Nine patients were included, all of whom presented with symptoms of myeloneuropathy including limb numbness, limb weakness or unsteady gait. Six patients had low or low-normal vitamin B 12 (cyanocobalamin) levels. Eight patients had evidence of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord via neuroimaging studies. All of the patients received vitamin B 12 supplementation as treatment. All had full recovery of muscle power within 2 months. Five patients had persistent sensory deficits. Conclusion: Chronic N 2 O abuse can cause permanent neurological damage if not treated promptly. Clinical staff should be aware of the various presentations of neurotoxicity related to N 2 O abuse.
原文 | 英語 |
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頁(從 - 到) | 428-435 |
頁數 | 8 |
期刊 | Brain and Development |
卷 | 41 |
發行號 | 5 |
DOIs | |
出版狀態 | 已發佈 - 5月 2019 |
對外發佈 | 是 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- 兒科、圍產兒和兒童健康
- 發展神經科學
- 神經病學(臨床)