While doing some research I came across this very interesting article entitled “Arsenic Poisoning”, discussant Michael S. Gorby, M.D, Albuquerque. This article may seem a bit miss leading at first; I actually thought this article was based on two patients who had experienced arsenic poisoning. A 17 years old woman whom attempted suicide by ingesting arsenic poisoning trioxide containing rodenticide and 64 year old man who suffered with chronic arsenic poisoning who was admitted several times in hospitals for various complications.
However, this article instead discussed the chemistry of the element Arsenic, the sources of arsenic poisoning: it’s natural, industrial and administered sources. Also the biochemistry and toxicity of arsenic, the effects of arsenic poisoning whether it is acute or chronic and the treatment of arsenic poisoning were discussed.
So What is Arsenic Poisoning???
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Arsenic is a member of the nitrogen family or group 5 of the periodic table of the elements. It has an atomic number 33 with an atomic weight of 74.9 and is classified as a transition element or metalloid. Arsenic is a natural element found in soil and minerals. Arsenic compounds are used to preserve wood, as pesticides, and in some industries. Arsenic can get into air, water, and the ground from wind-blown dust. It may also get into water from runoff.
You may be exposed to arsenic by:
- Taking in small amounts in food, water or air
- Breathing sawdust or burning smoke from arsenic-treated wood
- Living in an area with high levels of arsenic in rock
- Working in a job where arsenic is made or used
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Exposure to arsenic can cause many health problems. Being exposed to low levels for a long time can change the color of your skin. It can cause corns and small warts. Exposure to high levels of arsenic can cause death.
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REFERENCE
Gorby.S. Michael. 1988. Arsenic Poisoning. US National Library of Medicine. National Institute of Health. Western Journal of Medicine. Acessed 20th March, 2013. 308-315. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1026413/
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