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[Neurogenic bladder caused by toluene abuse]
S Yamamoto1, N Yoshimura, H Mori
1Department of Urology, Saiseikai Noe Hospital.
Hinyokika Kiyo. Acta Urologica Japonica
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Chronic toluene abuse caused demyelination in the pons, leading to neurogenic bladder and vision loss in a young man. This case highlights the severe neurological consequences of inhalant abuse.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
- Urology
Background:
- Chronic toluene abuse is a known cause of neurological damage.
- Inhalant abuse can lead to various systemic and neurological complications.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old man presented with urinary retention and progressive vision loss.
- Neurological examination revealed cerebellar signs.
- Urodynamic studies showed detrusor hyporeflexia.
Findings:
- Auditory brainstem response and visual evoked potentials indicated pontine damage.
- MRI revealed cerebral and cerebellar atrophy, fourth ventricle dilatation, and brainstem demyelination.
- Elevated urinary hippuric acid levels suggested toluene exposure.
Implications:
- The findings suggest that chronic toluene abuse can cause demyelination in the pons.
- This demyelination can lead to neurogenic bladder and visual disturbances.
- This case underscores the importance of considering inhalant abuse in patients with unexplained neurological and urological symptoms.