Exposure to n-hexane or toluene-containing solvents such as glue or gasoline canproduce clinical symptoms and neurophysiological findings that can mimic chronicinflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. The authors present a case of a boywith severe sensorimotor polyneuropathy with demyelinating features.Cerebrospinal fluid testing and magnetic resonance imaging spine did not showfindings typical of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. His lackof response to immunosuppressive therapy prompted a nerve biopsy which wasinstrumental in confirming a diagnosis of chronic organic solvent exposure,subsequently confirmed on history. This case highlights the importance ofadditional testing to ensure diagnostic certainty which allows appropriatetreatment and/or disease management to be tailored appropriately including inthis instance, the involvement of mental health counseling and avoidance ofimmunosuppressant medication.
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