Toxic Effects of Methyl Bromide (MeBr)

 

Molecular weight of bromide: 79.9

Molecular weight of methyl bromide: 79.9 + 15 = 94.9

 

Routes of exposure: inhalation, dermal, ingestion

 

Clinical neurological symptoms may include:

(1) ataxia

(2) dizziness

(3) confusion or difficulty concentrating

(4) visual impairment (decreased visual acuity, decreased peripheral vision)

(5) headache

(6) seizures

 

Other signs and symptoms:

(1) cough

(2) dyspnea

(3) ocular irritation

(4) irritation of skin or mucous membranes

(5) nausea and vomiting

 

Serious exposures can result in:

(1) pulmonary edema

(2) coma

 

Serum bromide levels may be elevated (> 100 mg/L) following an acute exposure but may be normal if there is a chronic exposure or delayed onset of symptoms. Normal serum bromide levels does not exclude the diagnosis.