Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is common and frequently unrecognized since the signs, and symptoms are relatively nonspecific. CO poisoning causes tis sue hypoxia. Additionally, various animal studies have demonstrated-that CO interferes with myoglobin, P450, and other enzyme function; causes lipid p eroxidation through neutrophil activation;produces oxidative stress manifes ted by peroxynitrate deposition in endothelium; binds to cytochrome aa3, di srupting intracelluar oxygen utilization; tan cause neuroexcitotoxicity; an d contributes to hippocampal cellular death through: apoptosis. Emergency t reatment for CO poisoning is 100% oxygen. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO2) is accepted in CO poisoning, although data from randomized clinical trials regarding the efficacy of HBO, in CO poisoning is conflicting. CO poisoning , even when treated with supplemental oxygen can leave the patient with per manent neurocognitive or affective problems. Unfortunately, there appears t o be no marker or constellation of signs or symptoms at presentation that p redicts longterm outcome following CO poisoning. Given the neurocognitive s equelae following CO poisoning, increased awareness and prevention of CO po isoning is imperative.