Mercury, aryl compounds

Synonyms

Phenylmercuric acetate (PMA); Phenylmercuric oleate (PMO); Di(phenylmercury)dodecyenylsuccinate (PMDS); all banned for pesticide use; [http://www.epa.gov/oppfead1/international/piclist.htm]

Category

Metals, Organic Compounds

Sources/Uses

Used as wood preservatives and as antiseptics and biocides in ophthalmic products, vaginal products, vaccines, nasal sprays, seed dressings, and paper production; Workers may be exposed producing disinfectants, fungicides, and pharmaceutical or handling treated seeds and lumber. [Sullivan, p. 874]

Comments

"The aryl and long-chain mercury compounds behave toxicologically similarly to inorganic mercury." [Sullivan, p. 874] Phenylmercury is rapidly metabolized in the body, and its effects are similar to those of mercury salts. [ATSDR Case Studies # 17] Data is limited on the fetal effects of mercury in forms other than methyl mercury. Experimental animals exposed to high doses of mercury vapor and salts have increased developmental abnormalities. [ATSDR Case Studies #29] Organic mercury compounds are reproductive toxins that can cause CNS malformations and cerebral palsy in humans. [ATSDR Case Studies # 29] The phenyl mercuric salts (used in herbicides, fungicides, antiseptics, and preservatives) are strong skin irritants. [Marks, p. 148] Mercury can produce slight hepatic injury in experimental animals. [Zimmerman, p. 419] "Mercurial diuretics, methoxyethyl mercury, ethyl mercury, and phenyl mercury compounds have caused renal toxicity, including nephrotic syndrome, albuminuria, and renal failure. An autoimmune response to a mercury-protein complex has been hypothesized." [Sullivan, p. 875] Danger of skin sensitization; [MAK] See "Mercury, inorganic compounds."

EPA banned the use phenylmercuric acetate (PMA) as a fungicide in interior paints (1990) and exterior paints (1991); [ATSDR ToxProfiles]

Biomedical References

Yes

Yes

0.1 mg/m3, as Hg

0.1 mg/m3, as Hg

10 mg/m3, as Hg

Explanatory Notes

For PEL, see OSHA standard interpretation memo;

Yes

Sensorimotor

Yes

Yes

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Contact dermatitis, allergic
• Neuropathy, toxic

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Using Disinfectants or Biocides