Atypical parkinsonism and motor neuron syndrome in a Biosphere 2 participant: a possible complication of chronic hypoxia and carbon monoxide toxicity?

Published

Journal Article

Exogenous toxins and chronic hypoxia have been implicated in the etiopathogenesis of a variety of neurological disorders, but it is not always possible to establish a cause-effect relationships. We describe a patient who presented with an unusual gait disorder and progressive motor neuron disease after residing for 2 years within Biosphere 2, a scientifically engineered dome, tightly sealed to allow miniscule exchange of air between its atmosphere and the earth's atmosphere. We postulate that this unusual syndrome resulted from chronic hypoxia possibly coupled with carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide exposure.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Lassinger, BK; Kwak, C; Walford, RL; Jankovic, J

Published Date

  • April 2004

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 19 / 4

Start / End Page

  • 465 - 469

PubMed ID

  • 15077246

Pubmed Central ID

  • 15077246

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1531-8257

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0885-3185

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1002/mds.20076

Language

  • eng