Elemental Mercury
Elemental mercury, also known as quicksilver, is a liquid metallic form of mercury that is not as soluble as other forms such as methylmercury or inorganic mercury compounds. Unlike these forms, elemental mercury is not easily absorbed through skin contact or digestion. However, the real danger of elemental mercury lies in its vapor. When inhaled, the respiratory tract is responsible for 80 percent of the absorption of mercury, making it the primary route of exposure. Even at low concentrations, the vapor of mercury can lead to mercury poisoning. This is because the vapor can easily enter the circulatory system, allowing it to spread throughout the entire body.
Diagnosis of Mercury Poisoning
Diagnosing mercury poisoning can be a challenging task in most cases. Physicians often rely on understanding the patient’s history of exposure or detecting traces of mercury in the body. To identify potential sources of inorganic and elemental mercury, doctors may inquire about the individual’s work and diet history. Urine tests are commonly used to detect long-term exposure to mercury. However, diagnosing organic mercury, such as methylmercury, may require a hair or blood analysis. It is important to note that certain treatments for mercury and other metal poisonings can interfere with the accuracy of these diagnostic tests.