Butane encephalopathy

Emerg Med J. 2005 Sep;22(9):676-7. doi: 10.1136/emj.2003.014134.

Abstract

Volatile solvent abuse (VSA) is defined at the "intentional inhalation of a volatile substance for the purpose of achieving a euphoric state". The lifetime prevalence of VSA in the UK remains steady at around 15%, the fourth highest rate in Europe, and VSA is the most common form of drug abuse in the 11-15 year age group in England and Wales. A 13 year old girl presented to the accident and emergency unit following inhalation of butane based deodorant, which resulted in a prolonged semiconscious state with encephalopathic symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Butanes / poisoning*
  • Deodorants / chemistry
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Obesity / psychology
  • Solvents / poisoning*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / diagnosis

Substances

  • Butanes
  • Deodorants
  • Solvents
  • butane