Acute and chronic arsenic toxicity

R N Ratnaike

doi:10.1136/pmj.79.933.391

journal article Jul 01, 2003

Acute and chronic arsenic toxicity

R N Ratnaike

Postgraduate Medical Journal Vol. 79 No. 933 pp. 391-396 · Oxford University Press (OUP)

View at Publisher Save 10.1136/pmj.79.933.391

Abstract

Abstract
Arsenic toxicity is a global health problem affecting many millions of people. Contamination is caused by arsenic from natural geological sources leaching into aquifers, contaminating drinking water and may also occur from mining and other industrial processes. Arsenic is present as a contaminant in many traditional remedies. Arsenic trioxide is now used to treat acute promyelocytic leukaemia. Absorption occurs predominantly from ingestion from the small intestine, though minimal absorption occurs from skin contact and inhalation. Arsenic exerts its toxicity by inactivating up to 200 enzymes, especially those involved in cellular energy pathways and DNA synthesis and repair. Acute arsenic poisoning is associated initially with nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and severe diarrhoea. Encephalopathy and peripheral neuropathy are reported. Chronic arsenic toxicity results in multisystem disease. Arsenic is a well documented human carcinogen affecting numerous organs. There are no evidence based treatment regimens to treat chronic arsenic poisoning but antioxidants have been advocated, though benefit is not proven. The focus of management is to reduce arsenic ingestion from drinking water and there is increasing emphasis on using alternative supplies of water.

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Details

Published: Jul 01, 2003
Vol/Issue: 79(933)
Pages: 391-396
License: View

Authors

R

R N Ratnaike

Cite This Article

R N Ratnaike (2003). Acute and chronic arsenic toxicity. Postgraduate Medical Journal, 79(933), 391-396. https://doi.org/10.1136/pmj.79.933.391

Acute and chronic arsenic toxicity

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