7/22/2023 0 Comments Signs of chromium deficiencyIn addition, chromium (VI) is the more readily absorbed by both inhalation and oral routes. The toxicity of chromium depends on the oxidation state, chromium (VI) being more toxic than the trivalent form chromium (III). Potassium dichromate may be toxic to the reproductive system and the developing foetus – there is not sufficient evidence to suggest that chromium (III) compounds are reproductive or developmental toxicants Ingestion of large amounts of chromium (VI) can lead to severe respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic and renal damage and potentially deathĬhromium (VI) may cause occupational asthma in sensitised individualsĬhronic inhalation of chromium (III) salts causes a range of inflammatory changes in the respiratory tractĬhronic inhalation of high levels of chromium (VI) (in poorly controlled occupational settings) may cause nasal septum ulceration and perforation, respiratory irritation, lung cancer and possible renal effectsĭermal contact in chromium-sensitised individuals can lead to allergic dermatitis and chronic dermal exposure can result in deeply penetrating skin ulcers if left untreatedĬhromium (VI) compounds have mutagenic potentialĬhromium (VI) compounds are carcinogenic to humans but chromium (III) compounds are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans The respiratory tract is the primary target organ for inhaled chromium Insoluble inhaled chromium particles can remain in the lung for a long timeĪbsorbed chromium is distributed to all tissues of the body.Ĭhromium (VI) is unstable in the body, and is rapidly reduced to chromium (V), chromium (IV) and ultimately to stable chromium (III) by endogenous reducing agentsĪbsorbed chromium is excreted primarily in the urine and to a lesser extent in faeces Uptake of chromium depends on the valency (III or VI) and solubility of the chromium-containing compoundĪbout 0.5% to 1% of chromium (III) present in the normal diet is adsorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, while chromium (VI) is more readily absorbed by both inhalation and oral routes Long-term studies in which animals have been exposed to low levels of chromium in food or water have produced no harmful effects. A study using immune-function assay described reduced production of cytokines in individuals who were exposed to chromate. Hudson County, NJ, was a major center for the processing of chromium ore. Reports on adverse effects from low-level environmental exposures in human populations are limited. ![]() Besides the lungs and intestinal tract, the liver and kidney are often target organs for chromate toxicity. Apart from the carcinogenic potential, prolonged exposure can result in bronchitis, rhinitis, or sinusitis or the formation of nasal mucosal polyps. Lung cancer is the most serious long-term effect. Ulcers can penetrate deep into soft tissue or become the sites of secondary infection, but are not known to lead to malignancy. The characteristic chrome sore begins as a papule, forming an ulcer with raised hard edges. These commonly occur on the fingers, knuckles, and forearms. When a solution of chromate contacts the skin, it can produce penetrating lesions known as chrome holes or chrome ulcers, particularly in areas where a break in the epidermis is already present. Chromate dusts can also produce irritation of the conjunctiva and mucous membranes, nasal ulcers and perforations, keratitis, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Repeated skin contact with chromium dusts can lead to incapacitating eczematous dermatitis with edema. Burns initially resemble first and second degree burns, but extend to subcutaneous tissue within a couple of days. ![]() Systemic symptoms and death have occurred after external burns, with a delay of onset of gastrointestinal symptoms of hours and days. The average oral lethal dose of Cr(VI) in humans is 1-3 grams (Meditext 2005). Īcute Cr(VI) poisonings are often fatal regardless of the therapy used. coma, and even death, depending on the dose.intense gastrointestinal irritation or ulceration and corrosion,.Severe exposures to Cr(VI) compounds are usually accidental or intentional (suicide), and are rarely occupational or environmental. Acute poisoning is likely to occur through the oral route, whereas chronic poisoning is mainly from inhalation or skin contact.
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