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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
09:33
An Anaerobic Biosensor Assay for the Detection of Mercury and Cadmium
Published on: December 17, 2018
Being alive after a severe inorganic mercury intoxication
Nilgun Erkek1, Saliha Senel, Avni Sarac
1Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Dr. Sami Ulus Children's Health and Diseases Education and Research Hospital, Telsizler, Ankara, Turkey. nilzeyno@yahoo.com
European Journal of Pediatrics
|October 6, 2009
Summary
Severe inorganic mercury poisoning is life-threatening, affecting multiple organ systems. This case demonstrates that even with extremely high mercury levels, survival and full recovery are possible in children.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Inorganic mercury intoxication presents significant risks to multiple organ systems, including gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, hematologic, neuropsychiatric, and dermatologic.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for mitigating severe health consequences.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old girl presented with severe inorganic mercury intoxication.
- Her blood mercury level was 5,380 µg/L and urine mercury level was 91 µg/L, significantly exceeding normal ranges.
Findings:
- Despite the extremely high mercury levels and severe presentation, the patient survived.
- Complete recovery was achieved, highlighting the potential for positive outcomes even in critical cases.
Implications:
- This case underscores that aggressive treatment can lead to successful outcomes in severe pediatric mercury poisoning.
- It provides critical evidence for the reversibility of severe mercury toxicity and informs clinical management protocols.
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