(Cr) Toxicity | ATSDR - CSEM - Agency for Toxic Substances and ...

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Chromium Toxicity
Case Studies in Environmental Medicine (CSEM)
Key Points • No proven antidote is available for chromium poisoning.
• Treatment in cases of acute high-level chromium exposure is usually
supportive and symptomatic.
• Treatment consists of removal of the patient from further chromium
exposure, reliance on the body’s naturally rapid clearance of the metal
and symptomatic management.
• The physician can provide advice and patient education regarding
smoking cessation, how to avoid or minimize exposure to other known
pulmonary carcinogens, and general preventive health measures.
Progress Check
13. Which of following measures is incorrect when managing patients with
acute chromium poisoning:
A. Ventilatory and cardiovascular support.
B. Maintenance of adequate urine.
C. Induction of vomiting.
D. Hepatic function monitoring.
To review relevant content, see “Acute Exposure” in this section.
14. Which of the following statements is incorrect?
A. Except in the lungs, only small amounts of chromium are retained
several weeks after exposure has ceased.
B. Dermatitis, liver, and renal injury will not progress after removal from
exposure.
C. If the exposure has been lengthy (i.e., 2 years to 3 years), the
increased risk of lung cancer should be discussed with the patient.
D. The mainstay of management for chronic exposure is relying on
chromium clearance techniques, such as hemodialysis, exchange
transfusions, or chelating agents such as dimercaprol or EDTA.
To review relevant content, see “Chronic Exposure” in this section.
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