Description

Mercury:

• 3 forms: Elemental, inorganic salts, and organic
• Reacts with sulfhydryl groups, causing enzyme inhibition and alterations in cellular membranes
• Also binds to phosphoryl, carboxyl, amide, and amine groups of enzymes

Etiology

• Exposure is usually through the GI tract and inhalation and less frequently dermal exposure
• Elemental mercury exposure through manufacture of chlorine, ceramics, and gold mining and use of barometers, thermometers, and dental amalgams
• Inorganic mercury exposure through manufacture of batteries, tanneries, disinfectants, and paints
• Organic mercury exposure through agriculture, laboratory reagents, pesticide manufacturing, and consumption of contaminated seafood and grains