Multifocal central nervous system damage caused by toluene abuse

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Toxicology
• Neurology

Background:

• Toluene is an organic solvent commonly found in industrial and household products.
• Inhalant abuse, particularly of toluene-based products, is a growing public health concern.
• Previous research suggests potential neurotoxic effects of chronic toluene exposure.

Observation:

• Four individuals with a history of chronic toluene abuse presented with severe central nervous system (CNS) damage.
• Clinical examinations revealed impairments in cognitive, cerebellar, brainstem, auditory, and pyramidal tract functions.
• Ocular abnormalities including opsoclonus, ocular flutter, and ocular dysmetria were observed.

Findings:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans showed evidence of cerebral cortical, cerebellar, and brainstem atrophy in all subjects.
• Brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) were abnormal in three tested patients, indicating brainstem dysfunction.
• The patient exhibiting opsoclonus also had CT-confirmed atrophy in the brainstem, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex.

Implications:

• Chronic toluene abuse can lead to widespread and severe structural and functional damage to the CNS.
• The observed neurological deficits and atrophy underscore the neurotoxicity of toluene.
• These findings emphasize the need for increased awareness and preventative measures regarding toluene abuse.