Symmetrical Femoral Neuropathy and Rhabdomyolysis Complicating Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Although carbon monoxide (CO) is a common cause of morbidity due to poisoning, peripheral neuropathy following CO poisoning has rarely been reported. Furthermore, rhabdomyolysis caused of CO poisoning is also uncommon. The report focuses on a patient with symmetrical femoral neuropathy and rhabdomyolysis associated with CO poisoning. A 32-year-old male was admitted to hospital in a deep coma following CO poisoning. On admission, rhabdomylosis was also identified (total creatinine phosphokinase, 19662 IU/L; CK-MB, 272 IU/L). After receiving hyperbaric oxygen, the patient regained consciousness; however, bilateral hip flexors and knee extensors were still weak in accordance to the manual muscle test. Lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed and did not reveal any abnormal lesions. Nerve conduction examination and electromyography results indicated symmetrical femoral neuropathy. After taking the rehabilitation program for peripheral and central nervous system lesions, the patient achieved functional improvement in ambulation, endurance and balance.(Chang Gung Med J 2006;29(4 Suppl):103-8)