Mondo Description Heavy metal poisoning refers to when excessive exposure to a heavy metal affects the normal function of the body. Examples of heavy metals that can cause toxicity include lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium. Exposure may occur through the diet, from medications, from the environment, or in the course of work or play. Heavy metals can enter the body through the skin, or by inhalation or ingestion. Toxicity can result from sudden, severe exposure, or from chronic exposure over time. Symptoms can vary depending on the metal involved, the amount absorbed, and the age of the person exposed. For example, young children are more susceptible to the effects of lead exposure because they absorb more compared with adults and their brains are still developing. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are common symptoms of acute metal ingestion. Chronic exposure may cause various symptoms resulting from damage to body organs, and may increase the risk of cancer. Treatment depends on the circumstances of the exposure.
Counts of Target Development Levels for diseases known to be associated with this disease. If the disease has a valid DOID, targets known to be associated with all child diseases are aggregated. Click "Explore Associated Targets" to view more facets and details for the target list.
This disease has been annotated by GARD as a rare disease.
Description from Mondo Disease Ontology.
DataSources which have contributed target associations to this disease, and the identifiers by which the disease is referenced.
EFO:1001518
GARD:0006577
MESH:C535854
SCTID:85866007
MONDO:0023305
High level summary of knowledge for a disease, including descriptions and datasource references.