Ailing bones and failing kidneys: a case of chronic cadmium toxicity. (September 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chakraborty, Sutirtha; Dutta, Arup R; Sural, Saubhik; Gupta, Debkishore; Sen, Susruta
• Is Part Of: Annals of clinical biochemistry. Volume 50:Number 5(2013)
• Page Start: 492
• Page End: 495
• Publication Date: 2013-09
• Subjects: Disease -- bone disorders -- toxicology; Clinical chemistry -- Periodicals; Clinical biochemistry -- Periodicals; 616.075
• DOI: 10.1177/0004563213481207
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0004-5632

Abstract

Heavy metal toxicity is often caused by occupational exposure. Chronic cadmium toxicity is a significant health concern among workers engaged in zinc smelting, battery production and silver jewellery industries, particularly in developing countries. We report the case of a 48-year-old man who presented with severe osteoporosis, impaired renal function and acquired Fanconi syndrome. He was finally diagnosed with chronic cadmium toxicity resulting from long-term occupational exposure. Cadmium has a long biological half-life and there is no effective treatment for people who are exposed to it. Therefore, an early diagnosis and prevention of further exposure are important.