Work

The Inverse Lhermitte Phenomenon Suggests Nitrous Oxide-Induced Myelopathy: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Nitrous oxide-induced myelopathy is a relatively well-known clinical entity. Less well-known, however, is the rare inverse Lhermitte phenomenon, where neck flexion elicits an ascending, rather than descending, electric shock-like sensation. This is a characteristic symptom and sign that may occur in nitrous oxide toxicity. In this article, we present the case of a patient who was admitted to our hospital with suspected Guillain-Barré syndrome due to her ascending numbness and unsteady gait. We describe her examination and laboratory features leading to the correct diagnosis, along with a historical review of the various subtypes of the Lhermitte phenomenon and the pathophysiology of nitrous oxide-induced myelopathy.

Source: Case Reports in Neurology

DOI: 10.1159/000529325

Authors: Sonali Sharma, Michael Benatar, Steven Herskovitz, Volkan Granit

Institutions: University of Miami, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Peripheral Neuropathies and Disorders

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,030