Congenital Mercury Poisoning

Abstract

NEUROLOGIC damage occurs in adults and children after poisoning with mercury compounds.^{1 2 3 4 5 6} Mercury poisoning in utero due to maternal exposure has rarely been reported.^{7 8 9} After birth cerebral palsy and mental retardation developed in infants with congenital mercury poisoning. Widespread evidence of environmental pollution with mercury has led to increased concern over the possibility of congenital mercury poisoning.The case of congenital mercury poisoning reported here occurred in a family with several cases of acquired mercury poisoning secondary to the misuse of mercury-treated seed grain.Case ReportIn August, 1969, a group of hogs in Alamogordo, New Mexico, were inadvertently fed . . .