Ozone-Induced Encephalopathy Following Subcutaneous Ozone Injection: A Case Report

Ozone therapy has gained popularity as an alternative treatment for various conditions, despite limited scientific evidence supporting its safety and efficacy. Severe neurological complications have been rarely described. We report the case of a previously healthy 55-year-old man who developed acute encephalopathy shortly after a subcutaneous ozone injection. The patient presented to the emergency department with altered mental status, ataxia, and involuntary limb movements. Brain CT was normal, while MRI showed transient cortical diffusion abnormalities. Extensive laboratory and microbiological workup was unremarkable. The patient required mechanical ventilation for 48 hours, after which his neurological symptoms resolved completely without specific therapy. A repeat MRI demonstrated full resolution of the lesions. In the absence of other identifiable causes, a diagnosis of ozone-induced encephalopathy was established. Ozone therapy, although approved for specific indications such as paravertebral or intradiscal administration for radicular pain, may cause serious adverse effects when performed via unsafe routes or under inadequate supervision. This case highlights the potential for severe neurological complications following improper ozone therapy. Medical procedures must adhere to evidence-based indications and strict safety standards to prevent life-threatening outcomes.