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Five cases of arsine poisoning
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
|April 1, 1984
Summary
Workers exposed to arsine gas in a tin smelting plant developed haemolytic symptoms, jaundice, and renal issues. Prompt medical care, including blood transfusions and dialysis, ensured survival and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Industrial Toxicology
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Chemistry
Background:
- Arsine gas (AsH3) is a highly toxic industrial chemical.
- Exposure can occur in industries involving tin smelting and related processes.
- Understanding arsine's haemolytic and nephrotoxic effects is crucial for worker safety.
Observation:
- Five workers from a tin smelting plant presented with symptoms after exposure to arsine gas.
- Exposure occurred when wet dross was mixed with tin ore.
- Symptoms included abdominal pain, jaundice, dark urine, and in three cases, renal impairment and sensory neuropathy.
Findings:
- Arsine gas is a potent haemolytic agent causing significant red blood cell damage.
- Renal impairment and mild sensory neuropathy are potential complications of arsine poisoning.
- Clinical presentation varies, with some individuals experiencing severe symptoms while others have milder effects.
Implications:
- Effective prevention strategies are essential in industrial settings.
- Recommendations include moisture control for dross, enhanced ventilation, and direct dross addition to furnaces.
- Proper medical management, including supportive care and advanced treatments like exchange transfusion and dialysis, is critical for survival.