title: Biologic and chemical weapons of mass destruction.
abstract: Weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) are capable of producing massive casualties and are typically grouped into nuclear, biologic, and chemical weapons. In the wake of the September 11th disasters, attention to terrorist groups and the potential for use of WMDs has increased. Biologic and chemical weapons are relatively accessible and inexpensive to develop, and are thought to be the most available to foreign states and subnational terrorist groups. This article reviews various biologic and chemical weapons, including emergency diagnosis and management of selected agents.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida, Shands Jacksonville, 655 West Eighth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA. william.bozeman@jax.ufl.edu
authors.forename: William P
authors.initials: WP
authors.lastname: Bozeman
authors.forename: Deanna
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Dilbero
authors.forename: Jay L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Schauben
mesh_terms: D001427:Bacterial Toxins; D023482:Bioterrorism; D002618:Chemical Warfare; D002619:Chemical Warfare Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000506:poisoning; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D003666:Decontamination / Q000379:methods; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D006801:Humans; D011041:Poisoning / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D001427:Bacterial Toxins; D002619:Chemical Warfare Agents