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Distal sensory axonopathy after sarin intoxication
K Himuro1, S Murayama, K Nishiyama
1Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Japan.
Neurology
|October 22, 1998
Summary
Sarin inhalation caused a delayed peripheral nerve degeneration, specifically a dying-back neuropathy. This neuropathology was observed 15 months after sarin exposure in a fatal case.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
- Pathology
Background:
- Sarin is an organophosphate nerve agent known for its acute toxicity.
- Long-term neurological sequelae of sarin exposure are not fully understood.
- This case examines the chronic effects of sarin on the peripheral nervous system.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old male survived a sarin gas attack but died 15 months later.
- Neuropathologic examination of the peripheral nerves was performed.
- Specific nerve fiber counts were assessed in the sural nerve, sciatic nerve, dorsal root ganglia, dorsal roots, and spinal cord posterior column.
Findings:
- Marked decrease in nerve fibers was observed in the sural nerve.
- Moderate nerve fiber loss was noted in the sciatic nerve.
- Dorsal root ganglia, dorsal roots, and the posterior column of the spinal cord showed unremarkable pathology.
Implications:
- The observed nerve fiber loss pattern is consistent with a dying-back degeneration.
- This dying-back neuropathy may represent a late-onset consequence of sarin intoxication.
- This case highlights the potential for chronic, progressive neurological damage from sarin exposure.