title: Toxic encephalopathies.
abstract: Effective brain function is dependent on precise and complex interactions among neurotransmitters, hormones, enzymes, and electrolytes. Many of the chemically complex substances with which we come into contact can disrupt this intricately balanced system. Toxic substances, whether ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, may cause an encephalopathic state directly by affecting the brain itself or indirectly by compromising the brain's supportive systems. The article focuses on neurotoxins (heavy metals, solvents and vapors, pesticides, and natural neurotoxins) that directly induce an encephalopathic state.
authors.affiliation: Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland Air Force Base, 2200 Bergquist Drive, Suite 1/MMCN, TX 78236, USA.
authors.forename: Tracy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Eicher
authors.forename: Eleanor
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Avery
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D020258:Neurotoxicity Syndromes / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D009498:Neurotoxins / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D009498:Neurotoxins