Normal Mercury Level in Human Embryos and Fetuses

Abstract

The normal level of total mercury in human embryos and fetal organs (liver, kidney and cerebrum) was first indicated and it was shown that this metal is their constant component in the amount with an appreciable individual variability. As for the stage difference of the contents of the fetal organs, a significant decrease in the third-trimester liver compared to the second-trimester-liver was noted. The contents of the third-trimester liver and kidney were lower than the respective adult values. However, no significant difference of the levels was shown in the cerebrum throughout the period from fetal to adult stage, and this does not support the prevailing presumption that human fetal brain concentrates mercury. Little correlation between the mercury level in the maternal pubic hair and its level in the embryo was indicated.