Altered EEG pattern in aromatic hydrocarbon intoxication. A case report

A case of acute intoxication after both cutaneous and inhalatory absorption of a mixture of organic solvents (toluene and benzene) is reported. The peculiarity of this case is represented by the abnormal EEG findings: paroxysmal slow waves at the beginning of the intoxication, persisting, although attenuated, days after the patient's complete recovery. Moreover, the fact that other investigations were normal gives further support to the significance of routine EEG recording in monitoring the involvement of CNS in cases of acute exposure to aromatic organic solvents.