ALS and mercury intoxication: a relationship?

Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2007 Dec;109(10):880-3. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2007.07.008. Epub 2007 Aug 23.

Abstract

We report the case of an 81-year-old woman in whom clinical signs and features of electromyographic activity patterns were consistent with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Increased blood level and massive urinary excretion of mercury proved mercury intoxication. Despite a chelation treatment with Meso 2-3 dimercaptosuccininc acid (DMSA), she died after 17 months. The pathophysiology of sporadic ALS remains unclear. However, the role of environmental factors has been suggested. Among some environmental factors, exposure to heavy metals has been considered and ALS cases consecutive to occupational intoxication and accidental injection of mercury have been reported. Although no autopsy was performed, we discuss the role of mercury intoxication in the occurrence of ALS in our case, considering the results of experimental studies on the toxicity of mercury for motor neuron.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living / classification
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chelating Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chronic Disease
  • Disease Progression
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mercury / urine
  • Mercury Poisoning / complications*
  • Mercury Poisoning / diagnosis
  • Mercury Poisoning / drug therapy
  • Mercury Poisoning / pathology
  • Motor Neuron Disease / chemically induced*
  • Motor Neuron Disease / diagnosis
  • Motor Neuron Disease / drug therapy
  • Motor Neuron Disease / pathology
  • Motor Neurons / drug effects
  • Motor Neurons / pathology
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Succimer / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Chelating Agents
  • Succimer
  • Mercury