Current and research therapies for the prevention and treatment of delayed neurological syndrome associated with carbon monoxide poisoning: A narrative review

Hum Exp Toxicol. 2020 Jun;39(6):765-772. doi: 10.1177/0960327120901572. Epub 2020 Jan 22.

Abstract

Severe carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning causes fulminant deaths in common environment as well as neurological sequelae to survivors. Prevention of delayed neurological syndrome (DNS) after exposure to CO, the most important sequela, is based up to date on hyperbaric oxygen administration. Nevertheless, its use remains controversial due to the lack of evidence regarding its efficacy. The aim of this review is to report therapies under investigation for preventing or improving DNS, some of them with promising results in humans.

Keywords: Carbon monoxide poisoning; delayed neurologic sequelae; delayed neurologic syndrome; hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning / complications
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning / drug therapy
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / etiology
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / prevention & control*
  • Oxygen Inhalation Therapy*