[Arsenous anhydride poisoning. Peripheral neuropathy and changes in cognitive functions]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Toxicology

Background:

• Subacute arsenic intoxication is a serious condition with known neurological effects.
• Arsenic is known to cross the blood-brain barrier, suggesting potential central nervous system impact.

Observation:

• A 30-year-old woman presented with subacute arsenic intoxication over 11 months.
• Observed were classical peripheral neuropathy and, unusually, impaired superior neurological functions.

Findings:

• The patient's superior neurological functions improved concurrently with the peripheral neuropathy.
• These cognitive impairments are seldom reported in arsenic poisoning literature.

Implications:

• Arsenic exposure should be considered a potential cause of central nervous system dysfunction.
• Systematic assessment of superior neurological functions is advised in suspected arsenic intoxication cases.