Central nervous system toxicity and early peripheral neuropathy following dermal exposure to methyl bromide

We describe a case of early peripheral neuropathy and central nervous system toxicity as a result of acute predominantly dermal exposure to methyl bromide. A 32-year-old male was admitted after an accidental predominantly dermal exposure to methyl bromide while fumigating soil for pest control. The patient suffered dermal burns and vesicles on the upper and lower limbs. One week following exposure, he developed progressive weakness of the lower limbs, ataxia, paresthesiae of both legs and the left arm, hyperactive tendon reflexes in the lower limbs, and left Babinski sign. Nerve conduction velocity testing was compatible with axonal neuropathy. The patient recovered gradually from his burns. Three months postexposure he showed no signs of central nervous system toxicity, but the peripheral neuropathy was still present.

Neurological effects primarily referable to the central nervous system following severe inhalation of methyl bromide have frequently been reported. The patient described in this study developed an unusual early peripheral neuropathy following dermal exposure. Peripheral neuropathy can be an outcome of methyl bromide intoxication, but is usually a late sequela of acute central nervous system toxicity or an aftereffect of repetitively inhaled chronic exposure. In this case, exposure to methyl bromide through abraded skin caused early peripheral neuropathy and central nervous system toxicity.