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Brown-Sequard syndrome following heroin injection
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|September 1, 1983
Summary
Heroin injection can cause Brown-Sequard syndrome, a rare neurological condition. This case highlights potential spinal cord chemical transection from drug use, leading to paralysis and sensory loss.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Brown-Sequard syndrome typically results from spinal cord trauma.
- This case explores an unusual etiology following attempted intravenous drug administration.
Observation:
- A patient developed hemiparesis and contralateral sensory deficits after injecting heroin into the external jugular vein.
- Clinical presentation suggested a spinal cord lesion at the C3 dermatome level.
Findings:
- Myelography revealed a vasculitis pattern in the lower cervical spinal cord.
- Histological examination suggested chemical transection as the cause, possibly from heroin or its diluents.
Implications:
- This case underscores the neurological risks associated with intravenous drug abuse.
- It suggests chemical injury, not just physical trauma, can cause spinal cord syndromes.