A Case Report on Delayed Hypoxic Encephalopathy after Carbon Monoxide Intoxication Treated with Korean Medicine
Abstract
Objective: CO poisoning, caused by a colorless, odorless, and tasteless toxic gas, binds hemoglobin with over 200 times the affinity of oxygen, causing tissue hypoxia and central nervous and cardiovascular damage. Although hyperbaric oxygen therapy and supportive care are commonly used during the acute phase, neurological sequelae-including delayed hypoxic encephalopathy (DHE)-may develop after initial recovery. This case report presents the clinical course and potential benefits of integrative Korean medicine for improving neurological function and daily living in a patient with DHE following CO poisoning.Case Presentation: A 51-year-old male with DHE presented with bilateral upper- and lower-limb weakness, dysphagia, dysarthria, cognitive impairment, and gait disturbance. Diagnosed with Qi and blood deficiency, he received a 43-day integrative Korean medicine regimen including modified Doksampalmul-tang, Daseunggi-tang, Oryeong-san, acupuncture, moxibustion, and electrical stimulation. Neurological functions gradually improved, with significant gains in K-MBI, MRS, GCS, and NIHSS scores, restoring independence in daily activities.Conclusion: Integrative Korean medicine treatment may support functional recovery in patients with DHE following CO poisoning. Multicenter prospective studies are warranted to confirm efficacy and elucidate mechanisms.
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