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  • Updated 07.17.2024
  • Released 10.06.1999
  • Expires For CME 07.17.2027

Thallium neuropathy

Introduction

Overview

Thallium poisoning is still a source of toxic exposure. Dermatologic changes along with alopecia are key clues to the diagnosis of this painful neuropathy. In this article, the author reviews the clinical and laboratory features.

Key points

• Alopecia is one of the clues to thallium poisoning, as it is almost always present.

• Thallium neuropathy is usually predominately sensory, affecting both small fibers (pain) and large fibers (ataxia).

Historical note and terminology

Pesticides and rodenticides based on thallous salts were commonly used in the past. Although they are rarely used now, poisoning from accidental (mostly children), suicidal, or homicidal ingestion continues to occur (22; 26). Although industrial occupations may result in exposure to thallium, this is usually low level and chronic, rather than acute and high level (08). Consumption of contaminated food and water (17; 12) may also be a source of intoxication. Thallium intoxication has also been reported with contaminated drugs, including heroin and cocaine (01).

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