phosphorus toxicity in humans

Phosphorus is an essential structural component of cell membranes and nucleic acids but is also involved in several biological processes, including bone mineralization, energy production, cell signaling through phosphorylation reactions, and regulation of acid-base homeostasis. The acute lethal dose in humans is about 1 mg kg −1. [] These changes result in the development of progressive anuria, decreased creatinine clearance, and increased blood phosphorus levels. Diabetes can also lead to a deficiency, especially for people recovering from an episode … Katselou M, Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P et al. Hazard Summary. Acute (short-term) oral exposure to high levels of white phosphorus in humans is characterized by three stages: the first stage … 2 Most people get enough phosphorus in their diet, but some … Ingestion: mucus membrane irritation/burns, Chronic exposure associated with mandibular osteonecrosis ("phossy jaw"), Phosphorus in Krokodil likely contributes to the significant skin, vascular, and muscle damage that earned it the nick name "the flesh-eating drug", Serum phosphorus level NOT helpful in diagnosing (though may want to monitor if concern for other electrolyte abnormalities), Remove contaminated clothing, wash exposed areas with soap and water, Submersion in water/wet dressings can prevent spontaneous ignition of phosphorus particles, Manually debride/remove remaining phosphorus particles- may need wood's lamp to find, Inhalation: manage airway (may have significant irritation/edema), give, Rehydrate if significant GI losses, correct electrolyte abnormalities. Severe toxic symptoms have been reported following a single oral dose of 15 mg [Sollmann 1943]. However, due to the dependence of phosphate elimination on the kidney, humans with decreased kidney function are likely to be in a positive phosphate balance. Phosphorus has a garlic-like odor and, when exposed to air, it … Phosphorus poisoning (PP) presents with different symptoms depending on the kind of exposure. Other signs and symptoms of severe poisoning might include dysrhythmias, coma, hypotension, and death. The appearance of symptoms may be sudden and dramatic or they may be delayed. (1947) study is a report of the health effects observed in workers exposed to white phosphorus smoke during a factory fire. Phosphorus is highly mobile in biological tissues and will be readily absorbed. According to a studyfrom Harvard Medical School, phosphorus deficiency is most commonly seen in: 1. people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(affecting 21.5 percent) 2. chronic alcoholics (up to 30.4 percent) 3. people in intensive care units (up to 33.9 percent) 4. people involved in major trauma, such as a severe burn (75 percent) 5. people wit… Background. 1982; Walker et al. Red phosphorus is not considered to be potentially toxic as it is insoluble, nonvolatile, and unabsorbable. [] Pathologic changes have been documented in the liver and kidney. In addition, some diseases can reduce the digestibility of phosphorus (Crohn's disease, celiac disease). The excess is most commonly caused by kidney disorders, consuming excessive amounts of phosphorus in food and soft drinks, and if the diet does not have enough calcium. Abstract Acute phosphorus intoxication has been a familiar syndrome for many years. Table 4-1 summarizes the composition of phosphoric acids in RP-BR smoke. It has been stated that ingestion of as little as 15 mg of elemental yellow phosphorus may cause symptoms, and 60 mg can be fatal. 2 In one study mortality rate was recorded as 50% 3 and, in another study, 48% of those who ingested large doses. Very high phosphorus intakes over short periods (e.g., two 6,600 mg doses of sodium phosphate taken in one day) can cause hyperphosphatemia [69,70]. Excess phosphorus in the body occurs frequently and may be more concerned than the lack of it. 1935; Brown et al. 1948]. : A "Krokodil" emerges from the murky waters of addiction: abuse trends of an old drug. A high intake of phosphorus leads to: phosphate toxicity, and discuss future directions for the management of phosphate balance in individuals with normal and impaired kidney function. However, survival of ingestion up to 1.5 grams have also been reported [Diza-Rivera et al. Phosphorus is the principal element in the structure of the nucleus and cytoplasm of all tissue cells. Citation. Several studies have examined the toxicity of white phosphorus smoke in humans and animals (White and Armstrong et al. A phosphate supplement is typically used to prevent a phosphorus deficiency, a condition considered rare in the United States outside of certain high-risk groups. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency are: Overdose Diabetes. Dietary phosphorus deficiency is uncommon and often only observed in cases of near-total starvation or in rare inherited disorders involvi… Systemic toxicity has been described extensively in the animal model. Although phosphorus is enough in food its deficiency is mainly due to certain diseases such as diabetes, starvation, and alcoholism. Each peer-reviewed profile identifies and reviews the key literature that describes a hazardous substance's toxicologic properties. Abstract Maintenance of phosphate balance is essential for life, and mammals have developed a sophisticated system to regulate phosphate homeostasis over the course of evolution. This page was last edited 20:20, 1 February 2019 by, https://www.wikem.org/w/index.php?title=Phosphorus_toxicity&oldid=205077, Two naturally occurring forms: red and white phosphorus, Red is not absorbed well, limited toxicity, Toxicity largely due to inadvertent production of white phosphorus or phosphine gas during manufacture, Exposure predominantly from use as incendiary munition by armed forces (though occasionally used in manufacture of fertilizers, food additives, and cleaning compounds), Caustic and cellular poison; ignites spontaneously in air, forms phosphorus pentoxide, which then reacts with water to form phosphoric acid, Damage due to both thermal and chemical burns, Vomit and other secretions may have garlic-like odor, Phosphorus particles may fluoresce under Wood's lamp. Although phosphate production is a by-product of elemental phosphorus metabolism in humans, a normal phosphate concentration does not rule out an elemental phosphorus exposure. Phosphorus, white, molten appears as a white or yellow colored semi-liquid. Phosphorus toxicity in tomato plants: when and how does it occur? Citation. This allotrope of phosphorus is extremely toxic and the estimated human lethal dose is 50 - 100 mg. Transported at high temperatures. High phosphorus intakes might be signs of diets that are unhealthy in other ways, for example . Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15. 1947). Yellow phosphorus (white phosphorus) is a significantly more hazardous form of the element and may be present as a contaminant in red phosphorus. A reduced concentration of phosphate in the blood serum is a disorder known as hypophosphatemia. 1950; Newburger et al. Dysfunction of phosphate regulation has serious clinical consequences. 1963;186(11):170. doi:10.1001/jama.1963.03710110096052 Download citation file: See something you could improve? (More information) 2. The potassium concentration is balanced again… We need you! Human data: Death has reportedly resulted from a single dose of 1 mg/kg [Smyth 1956]. A high intake of phosphorus leads to: nonskeletal calcification of tissues (especially the kidneys, where it creates a kidney stone). This compound can have mild effects like affecting the skin upon direct contact or the eyes in case of white phosphorus gas. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis: Vol. However, survival of ingestion up to 1.5 grams have also been reported [Diza-Rivera et al. It is difficult to remove phosphorus from the soil but excess levels can be remediated by using low phosphorus (or phosphorus free) fertilisers until … It has been used in the past as a pesticide and in fireworks. DESCRIPTION: White phosphorus is a toxic substance produced from phosphate-containing rocks. Tintinalli’s Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide, 8e. Phosphorus has a garlic-like odor and, when exposed to air, it … This allotrope of phosphorus is extremely toxic and the estimated human lethal dose is 50 - 100 mg. Larger amounts of phosphorus in the body and cause a greater need for calcium. A common reason for this is over-consumption of foods high in phosphorus, such as canned, processed, or fast foods, or soft drinks. It is also a universally distributed component of skeletal, nerve, and muscle tissues. In humans, even mild elevations in serum phosphate may increase the risk of cardiovascular calcification. Two naturally occurring forms: red and white phosphorus; Red is not absorbed well, limited toxicity. Human activities, such as the manufacture and use of detergents, fertilizers, and water softeners, contribute to phosphorus in the environment. The highly flammable phosphorus-based compounds have been found in human and animal faeces, but in tiny quantities. Phosphorus Poisoning in Humans. Red phosphorus is not considered to be potentially toxic as it is insoluble, nonvolatile, and unabsorbable. [] These changes result in the development of progressive anuria, decreased creatinine clearance, and increased blood phosphorus levels. Also the lack of phosphorus can be affected by certain drugs (eg, diuretics). 29, Soil … Mild organophosphate exposure may cause: narrowed, pinpointed pupils impaired, blurry vision stinging eyes runny nose watery eyes excess saliva glassy eyes headache nausea muscle weakness muscle twitching agitation Functions. Phosphorus deficiency [] Pathologic changes have been documented in the liver and kidney. Further possibilities include inhalation of white phosphorus and its accidental ingestion. JAMA. JAMA. Phosphorus deficiency Although phosphorus is enough in food its deficiency is mainly due to certain diseases such as diabetes, starvation, and alcoholism. 7723-14-0. Ingestion of elemental white or yellow phosphorus typically causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, which are both described as “smoking,” “luminescent,” and having a garlic-like odor. Phosphorus is highly toxic to humans and animals. The ATSDR toxicological profile succinctly characterizes the toxicologic and adverse health effects information for the hazardous substance described here. Electrolytes keep bodily fluid levels in balance and help maintain the integrity of the cells. 1950; Newburger et al. Also the lack of phosphorus can be affected by certain drugs (eg, diuretics). 1963;186(11):170. doi:10.1001/jama.1963.03710110096052 Download citation file: 1980, 1981; Starke et al. Severe toxic symptoms have been reported following a single oral dose of 15 mg [Sollmann 1943]. 1948]. Phosphorus is highly toxic to humans and animals. Combustion Products The combustion products associated with RP-BR have been chemically and physically characterized by the U.S. Army. Biologic: No specific test for elemental white or yellow phosphorus is available; however, an elevated serum phosphate level might indicate that an exposure has occurred. Sources Food sources. Systemic toxicity has been described extensively in the animal model. If you take a look at the makeup of your body, you see that the majority of phosphorus is … DESCRIPTION: White phosphorus is a toxic substance produced from phosphate-containing rocks. Fumigation with phosphine gas is by far the most widely used treatment for the protection of stored grain against insect pests. The acute lethal dose in humans is about 1 mg kg −1. Make an edit and help improve WikEM for everyone. Elemental phosphorus exists in two major forms, white phosphorus and red phosphorus, but because it is highly reactive, phosphorus is never found as a free element on Earth.It has a concentration in the Earth's crust of about one gram per kilogram (compare copper at about 0.06 grams). White phosphorus is used industrially to manufacture chemicals used in fertilizers, food additives, and cleaning compounds. As there is no suitable chemical to replace phosphine, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of phosphine toxicity to increase the effectiveness of resistance management. Signs of Toxicity - Humans. Insoluble in water and denser than water. (1998). Microbes have been found to be able to convert ordinary phosphates in food into highly reactive phosphine chemicals that can spontaneously combust when … Phosphorus is a mineral found in many foods like beer, cheese, beans, and fish. Higher phosphate levels within the normal range are associated with vascular and valvular calcification in patients with moderate CKD, independent of PTH and calcitriol levels . Yellow phosphorus (white phosphorus) is a significantly more hazardous form of the element and may be present as a contaminant in red phosphorus. It is also one of the most common substances in your everyday environment and in your body. Each of the electrolytes has a specific role in the body with potassium being the major positive ion within the cells. Phosphorus Poisoning in Humans. Human data: Death has reportedly resulted from a single dose of 1 mg/kg [Smyth 1956]. The development of high-level resistance in insects now threatens its continued use. A person with low levels of phosphorus may experience fatigue, joint pain, or confusion. Phospate omeostatis In humans, w85% of the total phosphate is in the bone and teeth,10% to15%isinsoft tissues, and <1%isinextracellular Correspondence: Masafumi Fukagawa, Division of Nephrology, Endocri- Used in manufacture of methamphetamines and also found in the illicit opioid "Krokodil"; Toxicity largely due to inadvertent production of white phosphorus or phosphine gas during manufacture Phosphorus is found in most food because it is a critical constituent of all living organisms. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-175298/phosphorous-oral/details Chronic poisoning is the poisoning which occurs as a result of repeated, small, non-lethal doses over a long period of time. White phosphorus is used in the manufacture of munitions, pyrotechnics, explosives, smoke bombs, in artificial fertilizers, and rodenticides. Potassium found in the blood and other body fluids is, along with calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and sulfur, commonly known as electrolyte. Phosphorus Overdose Symptoms, Toxicity Level & Side Effects Excess phosphorus can cause hyperphosphatemia or high blood phosphate levels. Phosphorus poisoning (PP) occurs after accidental exposure to white (also synonymously termed yellow) phosphorus. In addition, some diseases can reduce the digestibility of phosphorus (Crohn's disease, celiac disease). Phosphine residues were detected in … ... were analyzed using headspace gas chromatography with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry or a nitrogen-phosphorus detector following the fatal ingestion of aluminum phosphide tablets. The excess is most commonly caused by kidney disorders, consuming excessive amounts of phosphorus in food and soft drinks, and if the diet does not have enough calcium. Acute poisoning is the severe poisoning which occurs after exposure to a single dose of pesticide. Contact may cause burns to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Life Sci 102: 81, 2014. by manipulating ammunition or firecrackers, results in painful chemical burns, quick development of necrotic skin areas, which are typically yellow and feature a garlic-like scent. White phosphorus is extremely toxic to humans, while other forms of phosphorus are much less toxic. Larger amounts of phosphorus in the body and cause a greater need for calcium. As a result, symptoms of phosphorus toxicity when they do occur are actually symptoms of iron and/or zinc deficiency. It has been used in the past as a pesticide and in fireworks. In addition, they generate electrical impulses that enable cells to communicate with each other. The Walker et al. Phosphorus. 1. White phosphorus is used industrially to manufacture chemicals used in fertilizers, food additives, and cleaning compounds. Direct skin contact with white phosphorus, i.e. Other pertinent literature is also presented, but is described in less detail than the key studies. 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