Trimethyltin encephalopathy

Arch Neurol. 1993 Dec;50(12):1320-4. doi: 10.1001/archneur.1993.00540120035010.

Abstract

A chemistry student was acutely exposed to vapors of an organotin compound. Seventy-two hours later, he exhibited delirium, spatial disorientation, perseveration, inappropriate affect, and memory defects. Five months later, he experienced episodes of complex partial seizures, which continue to require anticonvulsant medication after 7 years. Trimethyltin was identified in blood and urine samples taken 17 days after the accident; the blood level of trimethyltin was elevated 35 days after exposure. Serial electroencephalograms showed persistent left temporal paroxysmal epileptogenic potentials. Serial neuropsychological tests revealed persistent memory defects, cognitive dysfunction, and dysphoria 4 years after exposure. We review acute, resolving, and long-term residual neurotoxic effects of trimethyltin in man. We describe detailed clinical observations, serial neuropsychological test results, electroencephalographic findings, and exposure data in this patient, confirming the limbic system effects of trimethyltin and relating them to the known histopathologic pattern of this condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Occupational
  • Adult
  • Brain Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Brain Diseases / psychology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Memory Disorders / chemically induced
  • Mental Disorders / chemically induced
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Occupational Exposure
  • Seizures / chemically induced
  • Trimethyltin Compounds / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Trimethyltin Compounds
  • trimethyltin