Progress in the research on the pathogenesis of delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning

The inhalation of high concentration of carbon monoxide within short period of time might cause acute carbon monoxide poisoning,which is common in emergency ward in winter,especially in north China.The rate of disability and mortality caused by acute carbon monoxide poisoning remains high.Delayed encephalopathy could happen after a period of "latent phase",which,however,can hardly be cured.This can also be serious economic burden to society and families.Till now,the exact pathogenesis of delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning remains to be illustrated.There are a variety of hypothesis for this disease.In this review,we discuss the research progress about the pathogenesis of this disorder in order to provide new ideas for its clinical treatment. Key words: Carbon monoxide poisoning;  Delayed encephalopathy;  Pathogenesis