Arsenic, As
General information:
Arsenic (a compound of arsenic and hydrogen) is a gas formed in metal reservoirs in which acids are stored with arsenic impurities. Arsenic is readily absorbed by the intestine and is primarily secreted by the urine.
Acute exposure, by ingestion of arsenic compounds or by inhalation of arsine, causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms (bleeding), jaundice, renal failure and collapse, with a high probability of a fatal outcome.
Chronic arsenic intoxication is difficult to diagnose. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, hyperpigmentation, hyperkeratosis, peripheral neuropathies, encephalopathy may occur.
Chronic inhalation exposure to the foundry worker is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.
Sample required:
Venous blood in the morning in fasting and urine
Key words:
Arsenic, As