T56.1/T57.0/T56.8/T56.4/T56.0/T56.3
DESCRIPTION
This includes mercury, arsenic, gold, copper, lead poisoning, thallium etc.
Inhalation of metal fumes and particles results in metal fume fever. This may be confused with an acute viral illness with fever, cough, sweating, myalgia, headache etc. The course of the illness is usually benign.
The management of heavy metal toxicity depends on the specific metal, route of exposure and length of time between exposure and clinical presentation of symptoms. Discuss all potential patients with the Poisons Information Helpline for further investigation, treatment options and possible referral.
| Metal | Signs and symptoms |
|---|---|
| Copper salts |
GIT irritation, hepatotoxicity and haemolysis. |
| Arsenic |
Impairs cellular respiration, resulting in multi-organ dysfunction. |
| Mercury |
Clinical effects depend on the route of exposure and type of mercury (inorganic versus organic). |
| Lead |
Chronic toxicity more common. Affects nervous, gastrointestinal, renal and haematopoietic systems. |
| Gold |
Deposition of immune complexes in kidneys and skin; mucus membrane inflammation |
| Thallium |
Alopecia and painful ascending peripheral neuropathy. |