Temporary Thyroid Dysfunction and Catecholamine Excess Due to Mercury Poisoning in 6 Cases

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Toxicology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Mercury poisoning is a severe condition affecting multiple organ systems, including the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and kidneys.
• While known for its systemic effects, the endocrinological consequences of mercury exposure are not well-characterized.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent potentially fatal outcomes and long-term sequelae like neurological disturbances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and evaluate the endocrinological effects in patients diagnosed with mercury poisoning.
• To identify specific endocrine abnormalities associated with mercury toxicity.
• To raise awareness of mercury poisoning as a differential diagnosis for unexplained endocrine and cardiovascular symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A case series study involving 6 patients from 3 families with confirmed mercury poisoning.
• Detailed recording of clinical presentations, laboratory findings, and follow-up data for all participants.
• Analysis of endocrine and cardiovascular parameters to identify patterns of dysfunction.

Main Results:

• Thyroid dysfunction, characterized by elevated thyroid hormones and normal thyrotropin levels, was observed in 83.3% of cases.
• A pheochromocytoma-like syndrome with hypertension was present in 83.3% of patients.
• Hyponatremia was identified in 50% of the cases, and 4 patients required methimazole for managing tachycardia and hypertension unresponsive to other treatments.

Conclusions:

• Mercury poisoning presents with nonspecific findings, making early diagnosis challenging.
• Endocrine dysfunctions, particularly thyroid abnormalities and a pheochromocytoma-like syndrome, are significant manifestations of mercury poisoning.
• Considering mercury poisoning in patients with unexplained hypertension and tachycardia is essential for timely intervention and prevention of complications.