Glue-sniffing neuropathies

Can Fam Physician. 1993 Sep:39:1965-71.

Abstract

The commonly used term for solvent abuse, glue sniffing, generally encompasses a variety of substances, including spray paint, thinners, nail varnish remover, gasoline, marking pens, and lighter fluids. Inhaled vapours eventually reach the lipids in the nervous system, where they can be stored for long periods. In three cases of glue-sniffing-related neurotoxicity, the peripheral nervous system was affected in two cases and predominantly the central nervous system in the third. Unfortunately follow up is difficult with this patient population and symptoms are often complicated by alcohol abuse.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aftercare
  • Alcoholism / epidemiology
  • Biopsy
  • Comorbidity
  • Electromyography
  • Female
  • Gait
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neural Conduction
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Solvents / adverse effects*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / diagnosis
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / etiology*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / rehabilitation
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Solvents