AUTHOR=Zou Xiaodi , Yi Fangyu , Zhou Weijie , Dong Yanzhao , Alhaskawi Ahmad , Zhou Haiying , Ezzi Sohaib Hasan Abdullah , Kota Vishnu Goutham , Abdulla Mohamed Hasan Abdulla Hasan , Alenikova Olga , Abdalbary Sahar Ahmed , Lu Hui , Wang Changxin 

TITLE=Mechanisms and recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of nitrous oxide-induced peripheral neuropathy: a narrative review

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Neurology

VOLUME=15

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2024.1381938

DOI=10.3389/fneur.2024.1381938

ISSN=1664-2295

ABSTRACT=<p>Under standard conditions, nitrous oxide (N<sub>2</sub>O) manifests as a colorless, odorless gas with a mildly sweet taste. The compound finds applications in various fields, including its use as an aerosol propellants, an accelerant in motor racing, and an anesthetic in surgical procedures and dentistry. Unfortunately, the recreational misuse of N<sub>2</sub>O has become prevalent among young individuals due to its euphoric and hallucinogenic effects. Compounding this issue is the fact that nitrous oxide can be easily obtained from over-the-counter household items, facilitating its non-medical use. The global community has witnessed a surge in the recreational utilization of nitrous oxide gas in recent years. Despite the widespread non-medical abuse of N<sub>2</sub>O, there remains inadequate understanding of the potential adverse effects resulting from exposure to it. This paper provides an overview of management findings, laboratory and electrodiagnostic characteristics, as well as clinical presentations associated with neurological disorders induced by nitrous oxide usage.</p>