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[Electroencephalographic silence after intoxication with a carbamate tranquilizer]
P Tirot1, P Harry, G Bouachour
1Service de Réanimation Médicale, Centre Anti-Poisons, CHRU, Angers, France.
Journal De Toxicologie Clinique Et Experimentale
|December 1, 1991
Summary
This case report highlights acute meprobamate poisoning, where a patient experienced deep coma and cerebral electrical silence. Early meprobamate analysis is crucial for diagnosing unexplained comatose states with isoelectric EEG.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Neurology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Meprobamate, a carbamate derivative, is a sedative-hypnotic agent.
- Acute poisoning can lead to severe central nervous system depression.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and toxicological analysis.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old woman presented with acute meprobamate poisoning.
- Despite high meprobamate levels (250 mg/l), the patient exhibited deep coma and cerebral electrical silence 25 hours post-ICU admission.
- The patient experienced an uneventful recovery.
Findings:
- High meprobamate concentrations can correlate with profound neurological impairment, including isoelectric electroencephalogram (EEG).
- Cerebral electrical silence in this context does not preclude recovery.
- Meprobamate poisoning can mimic other causes of unresponsiveness.
Implications:
- Meprobamate level testing should be considered in patients with unexplained coma and isoelectric EEG.
- Prompt toxicological screening aids in appropriate management and diagnosis.
- This case underscores the potential for severe neurological effects and eventual recovery in meprobamate overdose.