ARSINE EXPOSURE

TYPES

Arsine exposure can take several different forms, including:

• Exposure at work. This happens when employees are exposed to arsine at work, typically in sectors like semiconductor production, metal refining, and welding.
• Environmental exposure. This happens when people are exposed to arsine through contaminated air, water, or soil.
• Accidental exposure. This happens when people are exposed to arsine as a result of a spill or leak.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of arsine exposure can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure, but they typically include the following:

Respiratory symptoms

• difficulty breathing
• chest tightness
• coughing
• wheezing
• shortness of breath

Gastrointestinal symptoms

• nausea
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea

Cardiovascular symptoms

• chest pain
• irregular heartbeat
• low blood pressure

Neurological symptoms

• headaches
• dizziness
• confusion
• tremors
• seizures
• unconsciousness

Musculoskeletal symptoms

• muscle weakness
• muscle pain
• muscle cramps

Skin symptoms

• irritation
• itching
• blistering

DIAGNOSIS

Medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests are used to diagnose arsine exposure.

• Medical history. The doctor will inquire about any symptoms you might be having, as well as any arsine gas exposure you may have had at work or in the environment.
• Physical examination. The doctor will do a physical examination to look for any indications of neurological or skin lesions, respiratory difficulties, or both.
• Laboratory testing. Tests on blood and urine can find arsine and its metabolites. The number of red blood cells and enzymes in the blood can also reveal how much harm exposure to arsine has done.
• Imaging tests. To evaluate lung function and find any anomalies, chest X-rays or CT scans may be used.

TREATMENT

Unfortunately, the way to cure arsine poisoning is yet unknown. However, the first step to treating this is to eliminate the source of arsenic exposure.