Arsenic in Lake Town, Kolkata

Arsenic is a toxic element found in the environment that exists in both organic and inorganic forms. It is present in the air, water, and soil. Although the presence of a small amount of arsenic is common in the human body, long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic can lead to arsenic poisoning.

Usually, arsenic particles travel through the air and are inhaled by the lungs. The more soluble these particles are, the easier their absorption into the bloodstream. After their absorption, the inorganic arsenal is metabolised by two methods:

• Conversion of arsenate to its trivalent form–arsenite.
• Methylation–the addition of a methyl group to this trivalent form.

The process of methylation helps in the rapid elimination of arsenic through urine. A noticeable increase in arsenic is also seen in blood concentration shortly after exposure. However, an abnormal level of arsenic is only visible in the blood for 4-6 hours, after which it rapidly disappears into the tissues.

The arsenic urine test utilises a urine sample to gauge the level of arsenic in the human body. In this test, the patient is asked to collect their urine over a 24-hour period in a sample box provided by the laboratory.

The values signalling normal levels of arsenic vary among laboratories. However, values over 100 micrograms (µg) per litre (L) (µg/L) are considered abnormal and may indicate arsenic poisoning. 

On the other hand, an arsenic blood test checks for abnormal blood arsenic concentrations in the body. The results could indicate significant exposure, and a subsequent treatment plan can be devised. Arsenic blood test results are usually denoted in nanograms per millilitre (ng/ml). If the test results have a value of over 12 ng/ml, it might indicate excess arsenic in the body. 

A build-up of arsenic in the body may lead to high skin, bladder, and lung cancer rates. Additionally, arsenic poisoning can also lead to heart diseases. 

Apollo 24|7 offers a comprehensive arsenic test to determine the level of arsenic exposure in the body. Patients can talk to their doctor to get this test done if they observe the following symptoms:

• Headache
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Muscle cramps
• Tinging of the fingers and toes
• Red or swollen skin

Long-term exposure to arsenic can also cause symptoms like a constant sore throat and persistent digestive issues. Since extreme poisoning can be fatal, it is advisable to contact a health practitioner if these symptoms last more than a few days.

Medically reviewed by Dr S V Prashanthi Raju, General Physician/Internal Medicine, Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.