Variation of Biological Half-Life of Methylmercury in Man

Abstract

The variation of biological half-life (BHL) of methylmercury in 48 patients who had ingested treated grains is studied. The BHL was calculated from the distribution of mercury concentration along the head hair. Instrumental neutron activation analysis was used for mercury determination. The BHL of methylmercury varied from 35 to 189 days with an average of 72 days. The widespread BHLs indicated that some persons may face a much higher risk than others with the same body burden. This abnormality was not related to age or diet.