Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an anesthetic gas, also consumed for its euphoric properties, which can cause serious health problems. In this report, we present the case of a 23-year-old man who has been regularly consuming this gas since 2018, with a progressive intensification of his consumption, leading to subacute myeloneuropathy. Given a similar context, a previous diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome in 2021 is questioned. We review the laboratory tests to be performed in the management of a patient presenting motor and sensory neuropathies associated with N2O consumption, namely homocysteine and methylmalonic acid (MMA) assays.
What is already known about this topic?
N2O abuse may lead to peripheral neuropathy and/or myelopathy.
What does this article bring up for us?
N2O consumption must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis of this condition. Plasma homocysteine and methymalonic acid assays help to confirm the diagnosis.
Keywords
Nitrous oxide, intoxication, neuropathy, Guillain-Barré syndrome, homocysteine, methylmalonic acid