Chapter 8: Environmental Toxins
Synopsis
Mrs. Bhagyasri Boyina,
Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy, Vikas Group of Institutions, Nunna, Vijayawada Rural, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
Environmental toxins represent a diverse category of hazardous substances encountered outside controlled pharmaceutical contexts, often producing distinctive toxicity patterns requiring specialized recognition and management. Heavy metal exposures include lead poisoning, with its neurodevelopmental effects in children and multisystem impacts in adults, requiring chelation therapy in severe cases. Arsenic toxicity presents with gastrointestinal, dermatological, and neurological manifestations alongside characteristic findings like Mees lines and garlic breath. Mercury exists in elemental, inorganic, and organic forms, each with unique toxicokinetics and target organ effects, particularly neurological and renal systems. Pesticide exposures vary by chemical class, with organophosphates and carbamates inhibiting acetylcholinesterase to produce cholinergic crisis requiring atropine and pralidoxime therapy. Pyrethroid insecticides primarily cause dermal and respiratory irritation, while organochlorine compounds produce CNS excitation and seizures. Industrial chemicals like cyanide rapidly inhibit cellular respiration, necessitating immediate hydroxocobalamin or sodium thiosulfate administration, while corrosives cause direct tissue damage requiring careful supportive care without neutralization attempts. Air pollutants include carbon monoxide, with its deceptive presentation and high mortality without prompt oxygen therapy, and irritant gases that produce progressive respiratory compromise potentially leading to delayed pulmonary edema. Management principles emphasize rapid identification, decontamination, specific antidotes where available, and supportive care addressing the unique pathophysiology of each environmental toxin.
Keywords: Heavy Metals, Organophosphates, Carbon Monoxide, Chelation Therapy, Industrial Chemicals, Environmental Exposure
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