Posterior Circulation Stroke After Sulfur Dioxide Exposure

Air pollution is potential environmental risk factors for stroke. There is strong association between short term exposure to air pollution and admission to hospital for stroke and mortality from stroke. These associations were strongest in low and middle income countries, suggesting the need for policy changes to reduce personal exposure to air pollutants. Ambient sulfur dioxide (SO2) is considered a risk factor for ischemic stroke and seizure. We are reporting a case of young male without identifiable risk factors presented with posterior circulation ischemic stroke, which occurred after an accidental SO2 exposure. Endothelial dysfunction and inflammation are the possible underlying pathophysiology for development of stroke. Understanding the mechanism between SO2 exposure and the onset of brain ischemia would be helpful in preventing devastating health hazard.