Abnormal Development - Heavy Metals

Introduction

The industrialization of the modern world has led to the proliferation in our environment of many different metal compounds. Some metals, such as zinc and iron are required in trace amounts for many biological functions. Other metals such as lead and mercury have had significant toxic effects on development.

There are historic examples of large scale disasters, for example the mercury poisoning of waterways in Japan (More? Mercury) Mercury poisoning (by methyl mercury) or Minamata disease had substantial neurological effects similar to Hunter Russell syndrome.

In addition to their direct toxic effects, the potential reduction in fetal growth and long-term effects should also be considered.

The specific effects of some metals are detailed in Material Safety and Data Sheets (MSDS) available from an chemical index page that relate to developmental abnormalities. These sheets are now generally required to be supplied along with the chemical purchased from a supplier and give a standardised description of the chemical, its physical properties, handling and health effects/toxicity. There are also several internet sites that have searchable databases of MSDS information. Note that handling chemical saftey may vary from country to country.

Some Recent Findings

References

Search Pubmed

June 2010 "Maternal Hyperthermia"

Search Pubmed: Maternal Hyperthermia

Glossary Links

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Cite this page: Hill, M.A. (2024, April 25) Embryology Abnormal Development - Heavy Metals. Retrieved from https://embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/Abnormal_Development_-_Heavy_Metals

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© Dr Mark Hill 2024, UNSW Embryology ISBN: 978 0 7334 2609 4 - UNSW CRICOS Provider Code No. 00098G