Blood mercury is mainly measured to detect exposure to organic (methyl) mercury from environmental exposure. Micro organisms in water methylate inorganic mercury thereby introducing organic mercury into the food chain. Organic or methyl mercury in found in both freshwater and saltwater fish, particularly in badly polluted waters. Human dietary exposure is mainly by eating fish.
In blood inorganic mercury is equally distributed between the plasma and red cells, however organic compounds are concentrated ten to twenty fold in the red cells hence whole blood mercury is mainly a measure of organic mercury. Excretion is mainly via faeces and has a half life of approximately 70 days.
Dental filling exposure is from inhaling the vapour of elemental mercury and is typically slight.
Low grade continuous exposure can lead to;
Inflammation of the mouth ,soft gums, loose teat , metallic taste and foul breath.
Tremors, metal and nervous symptoms including behavioural changes.
Lipids/Trace Metals
BHG
Do not separate.
2 weeks
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