Neurobehavioral sequelae of subcutaneous injection with metallic mercury

A 19 year old, white male, with nine years of education, attempted suicide by injection of metallic mercury (Hg) into the left forearm. CT scan findings suggesting mercury infiltration of the brain and results from urinalysis indicated clinically high levels of Hg excretion. Premorbid cognitive history was essentially normal, yet comprehensive neuropsychological assessment revealed significant impairment of higher cortical functioning beyond those expected of a moderately to severely disturbed psychiatric patient. Neuropsychological test results appear to offer a more sensitive, quantitative assessment of heavy metal toxicity.