Delayed Neuropsychiatric Sequelae after Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: a Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a common cause of intoxication. It has became a popular cause of poisoning death in Taiwan. It is well known that CO intoxication produces acute neurological reaction, but neuropsychiatric sequelae may be delayed for days or weeks after exposure. We report a case of suicide attempt that developed delayed neuropsychiatric complications after CO poisoning from burning charcoal. The symptoms were characterized by a latent period, followed by insidious and progressive course of neurocognitive dysfunction. The clinical recovery was favorable with a reversible course. We review the etiology, pathophysiology, and compare the management between hyperbaric oxygen therapy and neuroprotective agent. Physician should be aware of the management to reverse and improve the delayed neuropsychiatric sequelae that occur in CO intoxication patients.