Poisoning by Methyl Mercury Compounds

Abstract

In 1940 Hunter and others, reporting on cases of poisoning by methyl mercury compounds, showed that those working with certain organic mercury derivatives are exposed to great danger. In 1945 Herner collated the cases of poisoning by alkyl mercury compounds recorded in the literature. The seven cases hitherto published show a character istic clinical picture beginning with a sensation of numbness in the tongue and weakness of the hands and feet. Motor inco-ordination followed, and the faculty of walking and the power of speech rapidly deteriorated. Defective vision and hearing occurred in several cases, and there was often mental tor pidity, which led in some cases to complete dementia. During the war of 1939-45, when Sweden was virtually cut off from the rest of the world, the manufacture of methyl mercury compounds for use in seed-dressing and wood-preserving was taken up. In consequence of this certain hygienic problems arose as well as a number of typical cases of poison ing, two of which ended fatally. A report on these experiences seems justified. First the condition of the premises will be described at the time when the accidents took place, after which a series of cases will be presented. Finally the preventive measures adopted will be discussed.