Chen W, Si Z, Bi Y, Yang B. An unusual case of subacute combined degeneration due to nitrous oxide abuse, which relapsed after bariatric surgery: A case report.
Medicine (Baltimore) 2022;
101:e30442. [PMID:
36107547 PMCID:
PMC9439783 DOI:
10.1097/md.0000000000030442]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE
Several studies have reported subacute combined degeneration (SCD) induced by nitrous oxide (N2O) abuse. However, few studies have reported that N2O-induced SCD recurred because of sleeve gastrectomy after neurological symptoms improved.
PATIENT CONCERNS
We report the case of an 18-year-old woman who developed paresthesia, weakness in 4 limbs, and an unstable gait after frequent, excessive N2O inhalation.
DIAGNOSIS
The patient was diagnosed as having SCD.
INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES
Nineteen days after intravenous mecobalamin and supplementation with other kinds of vitamin B, her weakness and paresthesia resolved. However, 7 months after discharge, the patient experienced recurrence following sleeve gastrectomy. Blood biochemistry revealed low vitamin B12 levels. After a 22-day treatment, similar to the first hospitalization, her residual numbness and unsteady gait improved.
LESSONS
This case highlights that patients, especially those at high risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, undergoing sleeve gastrectomy require careful nutritional follow-up and routine monitoring of micronutrients such as vitamin B12 and homocysteine. Continuous vigilance is essential for patients with common and rare neurological complications.
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