[Hyperbaric oxygenation treatment of the after-effects of carbon monoxide poisoning]

Following a symptom-free interval of 2 weeks after acute carbon monoxide poisoning a 38-year-old previously healthy man gradually developed impairment of drive and movement, disturbed memory, disorientation, mutism and abnormal gait. Finally, an apallic syndrome developed. After a total of 40 periods of hyperbaric oxygen administration the patient recovered completely and resumed his work. The EEG improved during the treatment more rapidly than the clinical picture. The electropolysomnograph changed in parallel to the clinical picture. Computed tomography on admission to hospital demonstrated a zone of lower density in the region of the right globus pallidus. This finding was no longer demonstrable after the patient had fully recovered.