Antimony hair levels reflect past or chronic skin exposure, inhalation or ingestion of this element. Hair is a preferred tissue for analysis of antimony exposure and body burden.
- Antimony is a nonessential element considered by some to be more toxic than arsenic, but others say it is less toxic.
- Like arsenic, Antimony has a high affinity for sulfhydryl groups on many enzymes.
- Antimony is conjugated with glutathione and excreted in urine and feces. Therefore, excessive exposure to antimony has the potential to deplete intracellular glutathione pools.
- Antimony’s deposition in body tissues and its detrimental effects depend upon the oxidation state of the element.
- Antimony affects liver functions, impairs enzymes, and may interfere with sulfur chemistry.
- If antimony impairs phosphofructokinase (PFK), then purine metabolism may be disrupted, resulting in elevated blood and/or urine levels of hypoxanthine, uric acid and possibly ammonia.
- Antimony deposits in bone, kidney, and in organs of the endocrine system.
- “Antimony spots” may result from skin contact with antimony salts and vapors.
- Trans-dermal absorption can also lead to “antimony spots” which resemble chicken pox.
- Respiratory tissue irritation may result from inhalation of antimony particles or dust.
A confirmatory test for recent or current exposure is the measurement of Antimony in the urine.
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Elevated hair antimony levels have been noted as long as a year after exposure.
Possible sources of antimony:
- Food and smoking are the usual sources of antimony. Thus cigarette smoke can externally contaminate hair, as well as contribute to uptake via inhalation.
- Gunpowder (ammunition) often contains antimony. Firearm enthusiasts often have elevated levels of antimony in hair.
Other possible sources are:
- textile industry,
- metal alloys,
- and some anti-helminthic and anti-protozoal drugs.
- Antimony is also used in the manufacture of paints, glass, ceramics, solder, batteries, bearing metals and semiconductors.
Possible symptoms:
Symptoms can be variable, including fatigue, myopathy (muscle aches and inflammation), hypotension, angina and immune dysregulation.
Early signs of Antimony excess include:
- fatigue,
- muscle weakness,
- myopathy,
- nausea,
- low back pain,
- headache,
- and metallic taste.
Later symptoms include:
- hemolytic anemia,
- myoglobinuria,
- hematuria
- and renal failure.
Treating high levels of antimony in a hair test involves addressing potential exposure sources and considering medical evaluation. Here are steps to consider:
1. Identify the Source: Determine the source of antimony exposure, which could include occupational exposure, contaminated products, or environmental factors. Identifying the source is crucial for prevention.
2. Remove the Source: If the source of antimony exposure is known, take steps to eliminate or reduce it. For instance, if it's related to a specific product or environment, limit exposure to that source.
3. Medical Evaluation: Consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. High levels of antimony in hair may indicate potential health risks. A healthcare provider can assess your overall health and recommend further steps.
4. Chelation Therapy: In severe cases of antimony poisoning, chelation therapy may be considered. Chelation agents can help remove heavy metals like antimony from the body. This therapy should only be administered by qualified medical professionals.
5. Nutritional Support: Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support overall health and the body's natural detoxification processes. Consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist for guidance.
6. Follow-Up Monitoring: Regularly monitor antimony levels in the body, including hair, to track progress and ensure that exposure has been effectively reduced.
It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on managing high antimony levels in hair. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and health status.
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