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Carbon Monoxide-Related Vision Loss in an Acute Burn Patient
Karishma Setia1, Megan Newsom1, Habiba Hashimi1,2
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23223, USA.
Summary
Carbon monoxide poisoning from smoke exposure can cause blindness. This case study shows partial vision recovery in a patient treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a common complication of smoke exposure, particularly in burn victims.
- Visual impairment following CO poisoning, while known, is not frequently reported in the context of residential fires.
Observation:
- A previously healthy 32-year-old male experienced smoke exposure during an apartment fire.
- The patient developed blindness attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed cerebral hypoperfusion.
- The patient was diagnosed with cortical visual impairment.
- Treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) resulted in partial vision recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare presentation of carbon monoxide poisoning leading to visual deficits.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be a viable treatment option for CO-induced visual impairment.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and optimize treatment strategies for this condition.
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