Episode 968: Heavy Metals

Contributor: Megan Hurley MD
Educational Pearls:

Acute toxicity of heavy metals:

Gastrointestinal upset is the most common presentation

Chronic toxicity of heavy metals:

Symptoms depend on the metal ingested Increased risk of cancer Altered mentation Developmental delays (in children) Kidney failure

Four heavy metals that are tested for in a general panel and their sources:

Lead Old paint (homes built before 1977) or some older toys Pipes of older homes or those with corrosive agents May obtain testing kits from home improvement stores to test water supply Mercury Previously in thermometers, although...