SUBACUTE COMBINED DEGENERATION OF THE SPINAL CORD SECONDARY TO NITROUS OXIDE-INDUCED B12 DEFICIENCY.

Abstract

It is important to take a full history of illicit drug use, especially in young patients presenting with unusual symptoms.In cases of suspected nitrous oxide-induced neurological dysfunction with normal vitamin B12 levels, serum levels of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine can be measured to aid diagnosis.Prompt treatment of nitrous oxide-induced subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord with B12 injections and discontinuation of nitrous oxide use allow for a gradual recovery, although in some cases patients may be left with residual symptoms.