Publication date: 

29 Nov 2019

Ref: 

Reference Module in Biomedical Science (planned for publication in the Encyclopedia of the Respiratory Medicine) Elsevier. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-801238-3.11496-5

Author(s): 

Feary, J, Cullinan, P. (in press). Available online 26 November 2019

Publication type: 

Review

Abstract: 

This article reviews the respiratory toxicity of 24 “heavy” metals. In general, but not exclusively, exposures high enough to cause disease occur in the workplace, especially so where controls of occupational exposures are lax. Because of their widespread toxicities and the significant risks of environmental contamination the use of several of the heavy metals has diminished although some are employed in emerging technologies. The recognition and diagnosis of respiratory disease from these metals requires not only an understanding of their individual hazards but also on an accurate history of exposure.