Peripheral Neuropathy Caused by Arsenical Intoxication

Abstract

EARLY in the present century lesions of the peripheral nerves caused by arsenical intoxication were a frequent occurrence. In most cases the neuropathy could be attributed to contact with the many household articles such as dyes, wallpaper and insecticides that contained large quantities of arsenic. In recent years, exposure to arsenic has been greatly reduced, and arsenical intoxication is no longer considered a common cause of peripheral neuropathy. Dusts and sprays containing arsenic, however, continue to be extensively employed as pesticides on farms in North Carolina, and their accidental ingestion or inhalation has produced numerous cases of poisoning. Our experience . . .