Encephalopathy due to butane abuse

Butane is contained in many household products in Germany. Thus, it is easily available for abuse. The danger of such volatile substances is often underestimated.

We report on a 14 year old boy who suffered from a cardiac arrest and severe encephalopathy after butane abuse. MRI revealed bilateral lesions affecting basal ganglia as well as subcortical and cortical regions. The symptoms were those of an apallic syndrome. During the first 14 days he developed a severe tetraspasticity affecting mainly both arms. Application of intrathecal baclofen failed unfortunately. Clinical conditions did not change during early rehabilitative therapy.

We give a review on complications associated with butane abuse and the currently discussed pathological mechanisms of butane.