5 Questions
What is a common use of mercury in dental practice?
As dental fillings
Where does the mercuric cation concentrate mostly after absorption?
Kidney
What is a common symptom of acute mercury poisoning?
Vomiting and diarrhea
What is the excretory route for mercury after absorption?
Kidney and colon
What is used as a treatment for acute mercury poisoning?
Gastric lavage and chelating agents
Study Notes
Mercury in Dental Practice
- Amalgam fillings in teeth contain mercury
- Mercury is used in dental fillings due to its ability to bind with other metals, creating a strong and durable filling
Mercury Absorption and Concentration
- After absorption, the mercuric cation (Hg²⁺) concentrates mostly in the kidneys
- The kidneys filter the mercuric cation from the blood, causing it to accumulate in this organ
Symptoms of Acute Mercury Poisoning
- A common symptom of acute mercury poisoning is kidney damage
- Other symptoms may include tremors, skin rashes, and emotional disturbances
Excretion of Mercury
- Mercury is primarily excreted through the kidneys and eliminated in the urine
- Additionally, some mercury is excreted in feces and sweat
Treatment for Acute Mercury Poisoning
- Chelation therapy is used to treat acute mercury poisoning
- Chelating agents, such as dimercaprol, are administered to bind with mercury and facilitate its excretion from the body
Test your knowledge about the different forms of mercury, their toxicity, and their effects on various body systems. Learn about the formation of amalgams with other metals and the similarities between mercury and lead toxicity.
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