In Practice

Intentional intravenous mercury injection

G Yudelowitz

Abstract


Mercury toxicity is commonly associated with vapour inhalation or oral ingestion, for which there exist definite treatment options.
Intravenous mercury injection is rarely seen, with few documented cases. Treatment strategies are not clearly defined for such cases,
although a few options do show benefit. This case report describes a 29-year-old man suffering from bipolar disorder, who presented
following self-inflicted intravenous injection of mercury. Clinical and radiographic features, possible adverse clinical sequelae in preexisting
mental illness and further complications are discussed, as well as possible treatment strategies in light of relevant literature.


Author's affiliations

G Yudelowitz, Tambo Memorial Hospital, Boksburg, South Africa

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Keywords

Intravenous mercury injection

Cite this article

South African Medical Journal 2017;107(2):112-114. DOI:10.7196/SAMJ.2017.v107i2.12046

Article History

Date submitted: 2017-01-30
Date published: 2017-01-30

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