A rare case of Homicidal Mercury poisoning

Abstract

Mercury poisoning results from exposure to mercury in various forms. We report a case of homicidal ingestion of elemental mercury. Patient was managed with gastric lavage and chelation with British anti-Lewisite (BAL). Patient remained asymptomatic and developed no complications. He was discharged after 5 days in stable condition. Homicidal cases of mercury poisoning are rare. Elemental mercury ingestion usually does not produce complications as absorption from gastrointestinal tract is minimal.  Patient with mercury poisoning is managed with abstinence of exposure, gastric lavage and chelation therapy. Although elemental mercury poisoning usually does not cause complications but should be managed with care to minimize the risk if any.