Am J Psychiatry 1976; 133:317-320
Copyright © 1976 by American Psychiatric Association
Carbon monoxide encephalopathy: need for appropriate treatment
R Ginsburg and J Romano
The authors describe severe psychiatric and neurological sequelae in a
patient who suffered carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of a suicide
attempt. A review of the literature revealed that 15 to 40% of survivors of
carbon monoxide poisoning develop neuropsychiatric symptoms, often
following a period of apparent recovery. The authors advocate an aggressive
treatment approach to carbon monoxide poisoning, emphasize the diagnostic
value of extensive laboratory testing, and suggest that 2 to 4 weeks of
bedrest may prevent delayed neuropsychiatric sequelae.
