Nitrous oxide myelopathy: a case series

Abstract

Aims: To describe the clinical features and outcomes of patients with myelopathy and neuropathy due to recreationally inhaled nitrous oxide.

Methods: We identified patients presenting with nitrous oxide-associated myelopathy from an electronic database of all discharges in a large tertiary hospital between 2016 and 2023. Demographics, clinical features and the results of investigations were recorded. The primary outcome was modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) at least 3 months after hospital discharge where available.

Results: There were 12 patients identified, six women, mean (SD) age 27.5 (5.1) years, range 19-47 years. The most common symptoms were numbness, weakness and mental state changes. Four patients used large amounts of inhaled nitrous oxide and also took over-the-counter vitamin B12 supplements. The median (range) hospital length of stay was 8.5 (2-56) days. Functional independence at last assessment (median [range] of 3 [1-34] months after discharge) was achieved in nine of the patients, with three requiring ongoing support for activities of daily living (mRS ≥3).

Conclusion: Nitrous oxide abuse and its neurological complications are an important public health issue. Clinicians should be aware that some patients who use large amounts of nitrous oxide may self-supplement vitamin B12.