Nitrous oxide-induced subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord

Abstract

The differential diagnoses of a patient presenting with motor weakness is broad and requires a systematic approach at the Emergency Department when evaluating its underlying cause. While nitrous oxide neurotoxicity is uncommon, it is important to consider it as a possible differential in patients with preceding exposure, as treatment is readily available. We present a case report with magnetic resonance imaging images of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord due to nitrous oxide induced vitamin B12 deficiency.