Hair methylmercury: a new indication for therapeutic monitoring.
Maternal exposure to methylmercury can adversely affect fetal neurodevelopment. Long-term mercury exposure is best estimated by hair measurement of the metal. The authors analyzed the appropriateness of therapeutic monitoring of hair mercury in women of reproductive age using widely accepted criteria for therapeutic drug monitoring. The analysis reveals that such monitoring can help protect babies from long-term adverse effects, while ensuring appropriate maternal fish consumption.
Schoeman
Katherine
K
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Bend
John R
JR
Koren
Gideon
G
D000818:Animals; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000379:methods; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D005399:Fishes / Q000378:metabolism; D005506:Food Contamination / Q000032:analysis*; D006197:Hair / Q000737:chemistry / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D018811:Maternal Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D008628:Mercury / Q000737:chemistry / Q000633:toxicity*; D008767:Methylmercury Compounds / Q000633:toxicity*; D011247:Pregnancy
D008767:Methylmercury Compounds; D008628:Mercury