Early methylmercury signs revealed in visual tests. [In monkeys]
Since overt signs of methylmercury poisoning seem to reflect damage to the central nervous system, the present study employed behavioral tests suited for repeated measurement during a long exposure and recovery period. The most prominent early signs in monkeys involve sensory impairment. Of these, visual deficits have been the most readily quantified. Reduced sensitivity to extremely dim light could be measured many weeks prior to the appearance of overt signs. Deficits in skin senses and intention tremor also were early signs. Additional signs were described in the temporal progression, from the earliest signs through severe intoxication. With dose and blood mercury concentration held constant, the number and severity of signs progresses as a function of duration exposure.
- Research Organization:
- Rochester Univ., N.Y. (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 7268673
- Report Number(s):
- UR-3490-815; CONF-7510110-1
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: International conference on heavy metals in the environment, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 27 Oct 1975
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
MERCURY
TOXICITY
SENSE ORGANS
PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES
VISION
BEHAVIOR
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
DOSE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIPS
METHYL RADICALS
MONKEYS
TESTING
TIME DEPENDENCE
ALKYL RADICALS
ANIMALS
BODY
DISEASES
ELEMENTS
MAMMALS
METALS
NERVOUS SYSTEM
ORGANS
PRIMATES
RADICALS
VERTEBRATES
560305* - Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology- Vertebrates- (-1987)