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Updated: May 10, 2026

A Study of the Complexation of Mercury(II) with Dicysteinyl Tetrapeptides by Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Published on: January 8, 2016
Elemental mercury toxicity due to aspiration following intentional massive ingestion
Alison J Dawson1, Amalia Iliopoulou, Susana Gonzalez
1Diabetes Centre, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford Teaching Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Duckworth Lane, Bradford BD9 6RJ, UK. alison.dawson3@nhs.net
Abstract:
Deliberate poisoning with intentional ingestion of elemental mercury is reported not to result in systemic toxicity due to minimal absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. We report a case of a 43 year old male who intentionally ingested 200 ml elemental mercury which resulted in abdominal pain and vomiting. The patient subsequently aspirated globules of mercury which was confirmed on chest x-ray and his blood mercury levels were markedly raised. He was treated with chelating agents and managed in a negative pressure room to reduce the risk of staff being exposed to exhaled mercury vapour from the patient.
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