Cadmium toxicity

From WikEM
(Redirected from Cadmium)
Jump to: navigation, search

Background

  • Used in electroplating, soldering, pigments, and plastics

Mechanism of Toxicity

  • Inhaled form is 60 times more toxic than ingested form
  • Chemical pneumonitis
  • Pulmonary edema/hemorrhage
  • GI irritation
  • Renal tubule damage

Clinical Features

Differential Diagnosis

Diagnosis

  • History of exposure and respiratory / gastrointestinal complaints

Management

Inhalation

  • Supplemental oxygen
  • Monitor ABG, check CXR
  • Treat wheezing and pulmonary edema

Ingestion

  • Activated charcoal or lavage
  • Volume resuscitation to counter fluid losses
  • No role for hemodialysis

Disposition

See Also

References

Olson, K. Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 1999.