Nitrous Oxide Poisoning Complicated by Syringomyelia: a Case Report

Abstract Background: Nitrous oxide is a colorless, aromatic, inert organic gas with low toxicity and is currently abused in many recreational areas.Nitrous oxide abuse can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to neurological damage such as spinal neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy. Its abuse has not been associated with syringomyelia.Case presentation: We described the case of a 21-year-old young girl who presented with progressive weakness in both legs and numbness in four limbs after excessive recreational inhalation of nitrous oxide and her imaging findings were considered syringomyelia.Conclusion: Nitrous oxide abuse may be associated with syringomyelia, and that patients with nitrous oxide abuse should be further performed cervical and thoracic MRI to determine whether they have syringomyelia and give timely treatment.