ABSTRACT
The presence of arsenic may indicate acute poisoning or it may indicate nothing at all. Chronic arsenic poisoning is most likely to be seen in children who have ingested arsenic pigments found in old lead-based paints. Intoxication from carbon monoxide (CO) is a phenomenon that occurs in a wide variety of settings worldwide. The problems of recognising low-grade exposure to CO may result in a considerable underestimation of the problem. CO was once a frequent means of suicide, but changes in technology have led to a marked decrease in the number of deaths. High concentrations of cyanide lead to cardiac arrest within minutes of exposure. Lead can cross red blood cell membranes as well as the blood–brain barrier and enter the neuroglia cells which support brain function. Like ethanol, methanol can cause fatal central nervous system depression. Methanol intoxication is an uncommon but serious poisoning.
