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Transient visual loss after amyl Isobutyl nitrite abuse
Alfredo Pece1, Fabio Patelli, Paolo Milani
1Clinica Oculistica, Ospedale di Melegnano, Vizzolo Predabissi, Italy. pece.retina@mclink.it
Seminars in Ophthalmology
|December 14, 2004
Summary
Isobutyl nitrite (popper) inhalation can cause temporary vision loss. This case report details retinal changes and visual acuity reduction following recreational drug use, with eventual recovery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Recreational drug use, specifically alkyl nitrites like isobutyl nitrite (popper), is associated with various health risks.
- Ocular complications from inhalant abuse are infrequently reported.
Observation:
- A case report of a 30-year-old male presenting with acute visual decrease after isobutyl nitrite inhalation.
- Ophthalmoscopy revealed symmetric foveal alterations with yellowish-white spots, more pronounced in the right eye.
Findings:
- Visual acuity was reduced to 20/50 in the right eye and 20/63 in the left eye.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography were normal, but visual field testing showed reduced central light sensitivity.
- A progressive visual recovery was observed over one month, with visual acuity improving to 20/25 in both eyes.
Implications:
- Isobutyl nitrite (popper) use may lead to transient visual impairment.
- The exact mechanism of visual loss associated with alkyl nitrite inhalation requires further investigation.