Mercury intoxication simulating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
C. R. Adams, D. K. Ziegler and J. T. Lin
A 54-year-old man had a syndrome resembling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
after a brief but intense exposure to elemental mercury. The syndrome
resolved as his urinary mercury levels fell. Mercury toxicity must be
considered not only in individuals with recent anterior horn-cell
dysfunction but also with otherwise unexplained peripheral neuropathy,
tremor, ataxia, and a gamut of psychiatric symptoms including confusion and
depression.
