[Chronic inhalation of organic solvents and neuropathy. Clinical case]

A young man had indulged in chronic solvent vapor abuse for 14 years. After an abstinence period of 4 months, neurological evaluation showed distal limb weakness, predominantly of the lower extremities, and moderate loss of reflexes. Sensory signs were absent. Electromyographic evidence of chronic partial denervation was shown. Maximal motor conduction velocities were reduced and distal motor and sensory latencies were increased, presumably because of secondary demyelinating changes. CT revealed diffuse atrophy of cerebral hemispheres, however the mental status of the patients was judged normal. Thus, chronic exposure to solvent vapor may cause peripheral nervous system impairment without evidence of clinical effects on the central nervous system.