Purpose

The aim of this study is to present a case of delayed encephalopathy after acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in a 29-year-old female patient, and to discuss the applied treatment strategies.

Case description

A 29-year-old female patient was admitted to the Toxicology Department due to acute CO poisoning. Improvement was achieved following oxygen therapy, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). After 38 days, a decline in cognitive and functional status was observed. The patient was re-hospitalized in the Neurology Department, where delayed encephalopathy after acute CO poisoning (DEACMP) was diagnosed. Pharmacological treatment proved ineffective. Comprehensive therapy was applied in the Rehabilitation Department, including cognitive, motor, and speech therapy, along with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This approach led to a significant improvement in the patient’s neurological status.

Comment

DEACMP is a serious complication that may occur after asymptomatic CO exposure or following transient clinical improvement. In the presented case, HBOT proved an effective treatment modality, both in the acute phase and during the management of long-term neurological sequelae.