Falling From Laughing: Laughing Gas-Induced Subacute Combined Degeneration From Nitrous Oxide

Division

South Atlantic

Hospital

Trident Medical Center

Document Type

Case Report

Publication Date

6-11-2024

Keywords

laughing gas, neurology, nitrous oxide, nitrous oxide abuse, subacute combined degeneration

Disciplines

Internal Medicine | Medicine and Health Sciences | Nervous System Diseases | Neurology

Abstract

Laughing gas is becoming increasingly popular as a recreational drug of choice, particularly among young adults. Nitrous oxide, the toxic component of laughing gas, can cause neuronal injury when used in high doses. Through multiple mechanisms, nitrous oxide leads to B12 depletion and subsequent demyelination, particularly in the spinal cord. Here, we present the case of a 27-year-old female who presented with ataxia and was found to have laughing gas-induced subacute combined degeneration from nitrous oxide. After aggressive vitamin B12 repletion and laughing gas cessation for three months, the patient improved.

Publisher or Conference

Cureus

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