Question of the Day

Question: According to the reference cited below, “Mercury, particularly methylmercury, is known to be neurotoxic to humans. Vulnerability of the central nervous system to these substances is increased during early development, especially during the prenatal period.” What is currently considered to be the major source for human exposure to mercury?

Question: Some so-called “skin lightening” cosmetic products have, in the past, been reported to contain which heavy metal that may be absorbed transdermally?

Question: Up to 20% of cases of occupational dermatitis cases are due to exposure to organic solvents. What is the pathophysiology for the majority of cases of occupational solvent-related dermatitis?

Question: Anaphylaxis to snake venom is a risk for those who handle snakes as either hobbyists or professionals. What characterizes the anaphylaxis that such individuals may be at increased risk for?

Question: Which toxin is “a widely recognized experimental tool for studying the trafficking, expression and inhibition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the nervous system”?

Question: Intracranial vascular calcification has been reported in association with which chronic heavy metal exposure?

Question: What is “progressive massive fibrosis” (PMF)?

Question: Which methods are available to determine cumulative doses (as opposed to single acute doses) of lead in humans?  

Question: Which methods are available to determine cumulative doses (as opposed to single acute doses) of lead in humans?

Question: What is the differential diagnosis for the radiologic finding known as the “dense metaphyseal band sign?

Most food allergies are manifest following ingestion. Which food allergic reactions have been documented to occur as a result of inhalation? What clinical manifestations are commonly associated with inhalation-induced allergic reactions?