Mercury; the elusive heavy metal

ABSTRACT

Mercury is ubiquitous in the environment and therefore every human being; irrespective of age or location; is exposed to one form of mercury or another. The major source of environmental mercury is natural degassing of the earth's crust; whilst industrial activities can raise exposure to toxic levels directly or the through the use of liquid metals or synthesised mercurial compounds.1 Mercury still gives rise to accidental and occupational exposure. The aim of this mini review is to describe the main factors that influence mercury toxicity and provide a framework for the interpretation of mercury