Carbon Monoxide Poisoning with Reversible Hemiparesis: Case Reports

ABSTRACT

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a tasteless, odorless, and non-irritating but highly toxic gas. CO intoxication is not uncommon in South Korea. Clinical presentations of CO poisoning varied according to the sources of CO, the patient's environment, job, and suicidal intention. We report on two cases of CO intoxication presenting hemiparesis. After hyperbaric oxygen therapy, initial neurologic deterioration of the two patients showed improvement. Emergency physicians should understand the possible-neurologic presentations of CO intoxication and make a proper decision regarding treatment.