Recent advances in recognition of low-level methylmercury poisoning

Clinically evident neurologic damage from methylmercury exposure was well d escribed following poisoning episodes in Japan and Iraq several decades ago . Paresthesias have been considered to be an early effect; however, additio nal data raise questions about whether this is the most sensitive adverse e ffect among adults. Fetuses are considered the most sensitive subpopulation because of the vulnerability of the developing nervous system. Over the pa st 5 years questions have been raised about what is an appropriate level of exposure for sensitive groups, A recent evaluation by a committee for the US National Research Council found that 0.1 mug/kg body weight per day is a scientifically justified level of methylmercury exposure for maternal-feta l pairs. The conclusions of this report and other issues are discussed in t he present review. Because of anthropogenic release of mercury into the env ironment, methylmercury exposure from fish consumption is a pathway that is of increasing concern, Curr Opin Neurol 13:699-707. :(C) 2000 Lippincott W illiams & Wilkins.