Case history of serious altitude decompression sickness following rapid rate of ascent

Neurologic and respiratory decompression sickness (DCS) symptoms occurring in the same individual represent complications rarely observed in altitude research. A case is presented of multi-symptom serious DCS resulting from exposure to 12,192 m (40,000 ft). Following 90 min of preoxygenation, the patient was decompressed in a hypobaric chamber from ground level to 12,192 m in 30 s. After 69 min at altitude he developed substernal chest pressure and the flight was immediately terminated. During the chamber descent the patient appeared disoriented. By 5486 m (18,000 ft) his chest pressure had resolved. The post-flight medical exam revealed multiple neurological abnormalities. He underwent a Table VI hyperbaric oxygen treatment with complete resolution of all abnormal neurological findings.