A Rare Case of Intravenous Mercury Poisoning in a 35 Year Old Male

Abstract

The only metal that is liquid at ambient temperature is mercury. It is usually employed in the production of sphygmomanometers, thermometers, and switches. Mercury poisoning, often called mercurialism or hydrargyria, can result from exposure to mercury. Exposure may occur through injection, ingestion, or inhalation. In this report, we describe effects of mercury poisoning in a 35 year old male, nurse by occupation, who presented with an alleged history of mercury poisoning following injecting large amount of mercury intravenously after breaking through a sphygmomanometer in a rural primary health care centre. Investigations revealed diffuse metallic depositions in both of his lung fields. The patient was treated with chelation therapy and other supportive management for which he responded well and was eventually treated and discharged. While hydrargyrum has been extensively documented, reports of hydrargyrum following an intravenous dose are very rare, like in our case. Furthermore, it underscores the challenges associated with managing mercury poisoning, including the limited efficacy and availability of chelation therapy in rural set ups with cases of severe toxicity. Further research is needed to elucidate optimal treatment strategies and improve outcomes in patients with mercury poisoning.