Inhalation of elemental mercury vapor can result in an acute syndrome with late sequelae that may last for a long period of time. Repeated acute exposures may result in chronic mercurialism.
Organs affected in an acute exposure:
(1) lungs
(2) gastrointestinal tract
(3) kidneys
(4) nervous system
Stage of the Acute Syndrome |
Time Frame After Exposure |
Findings |
initial |
from hours to days |
metal fume fever, flu-like syndrome |
intermediate |
1-3 weeks |
multi-organ damage |
late |
weeks to months |
persisting CNS findings, resolution of other organ damage |
Respiratory system:
(1) dyspnea
(2) bronchitis
(3) pneumonitis
(4) noncardiogenic pulmonary edema with cyanosis
Neurologic findings:
(1) peripheral neuropathy
(2) seizures
(3) tremors
Gastrointestinal findings:
(1) gingivitis
(2) stomatitis
(3) excessive salivation
(4) metallic taste in the mouth
Renal findings:
(1) proteinuria
(2) acute renal failure
Laboratory findings:
(1) increased 24 hour urine mercury excretion
Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care