Nitrous oxide-induced myelopathy with inverted V-sign on spinal MRI

摘要

A previously healthy 28-year-old male presented with a seven-day history of progressive weakness, numbness and paraesthesias, which initially began in the upper extremities, and subsequently spread to the lower extremities. These symptoms were accompanied by Lhermitte's sign, sexual dysfunction and constipation. Social history was significant for recreational nitrous oxide abuse, characterised by the inhalation of 20-40 whipped cream chargers ('whippets') every day during the preceding six months. 'Whippets' are cartridges filled with nitrous oxide for use as whipping agents in whipped cream dispensers, and are available for purchase in most grocery stores.