[Accidental oral mercurochrome poisoning].

Abstract

Neonatal mercury poisoning, especially that due to merbromin ingestion, is uncommon. We describe the case of a 10 day old newborn infant who was given mercurochrome orally for 7 days due to misunderstanding of medical instructions. Initial symptoms included loss of appetite and low weight increase. Elevated blood mercury concentrations were found. Chelating therapy with dimercaprol was initiated and the patient's evolution was good. We discuss the potential toxicity of mercury and emphasise the importance of the transmission of information by physicians, especially to the immigrant population.

• Authors: Ayala Curiel J, Nieto Conde C, Santana Rodríguez C, Urbón Artero A, Gracia Remiro R
• Journal: Anales espanoles de pediatria (An Esp Pediatr) Vol. 53 Issue 5 Pg. 479-81 (Nov 2000) ISSN: 0302-4342 [Print] Spain
• Vernacular Title: Intoxicación oral accidental por mercurocromo.
• PMID: 11141371 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Infective Agents, Local
• Chelating Agents
• Dimercaprol
• Mercury
• Merbromin

Topics

• Accidents
• Administration, Oral
• Anti-Infective Agents, Local (administration & dosage, poisoning)
• Chelating Agents (therapeutic use)
• Dimercaprol (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Infant, Newborn
• Male
• Merbromin (administration & dosage, poisoning)
• Mercury (blood)
• Time Factors