n-hexane neuropathy due to rubber cement sniffing

Abstract

n-Hexane neuropathy has been described after glue sniffing and industrial exposure. Onset may be subacute and reminiscent of Guillain-BarrÉ syndrome. Although the primary pathology is axonal, electrophysiologic evaluation is frequently most remarkable for conduction slowing. We describe a patient with a severe subacute neuropathy following n-hexane exposure via glue sniffing. Although symptoms worsened after termination of exposure (”coasting“), strength gradually improved to near normal. Sources of toxic exposure should be sought in all patients with subacute demyelinating neuropathies. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 20: 1445–1450, 1997