An arrhythmic episode after mercury exposure and successful treatment with chelation therapy: A case report

Assessment of the Cardiac Autonomic Nervous System in Mercury-Exposed Individuals via Post-Exercise Heart Rate Recovery

“…Many studies that have researched mercury-related health problems were carried out in study populations mostly exposed through the consumption of mercury-contaminated fish and other seafood [ 2 , 3 ]. Other sources important for mercury toxicity include occupational exposure, dental amalgam, fluorescent lamps, thermometers and batteries [ 4 , 5 ]. The toxic effects on the central nervous system of mercury are well known [ 6 ]; however, epidemiological and experimental studies have recently reported an association between mercury and the cardiovascular system, such as coronary heart disease and myocardial infarction [ 7 , 8 ], hypertension [ 9 ], generalized atherosclerosis and cerebrovascular accident [ 9 , 10 ].…”

Mercury overexposure and atrial fibrillation

“…We read with great interest the article entitled “An arrhythmic episode after mercury exposure and successful treatment with chelation therapy: A case report.” by Karakulak et al ( 1 ) reporting a case of acute mercury (vapor) poisoning followed by 7-day history of malaise, fatigue, proximal weakness in the legs and in the arms, atypical chest pain, and palpitation in a 32-year-old woman in published Anatol J Cardiol 2015; 15: 589-90. The syndrome of acute mercury toxicity became manifest within 24 h after metallic mercury (Hg0) overexposure ( 1 ). The source of acute intoxication was the release of elemental (Hg0) from a broken fluorescent lamp ( 1 ).…”

“…The syndrome of acute mercury toxicity became manifest within 24 h after metallic mercury (Hg0) overexposure ( 1 ). The source of acute intoxication was the release of elemental (Hg0) from a broken fluorescent lamp ( 1 ). We applaud this interesting work, but we would like to raise one issue regarding its interpretation.…”

“…Therefore, in the case under discussion, the episode of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation may be related to the additive toxic effects induced by the combination of multiple exposures to heavy metals [i.e., elemental metallic mercury (Hg0), arsenic (As), and lead (Pb)]. The authors ( 1 ) are to be commended on their case report of a woman with cardiac arrhythmia after mercury intoxication and their high index of suspicion and careful analysis of the mercury in bioindicators (i.e., whole blood and urine).…”