potassium chromate poisoning


potassium chromate poisoning

Poisoning caused by potassium chromate, possibly contracted by inhalation or from touching the nose with contaminated fingers, causing deep indolent ulcers.

Symptoms

When taken by mouth, potassium chromate has a disagreeable taste; it causes cramping, pain, vomiting, diarrhea, slow respiration; and it may affect the liver and kidneys.

CAUTION!

Vomiting should not be induced.

Patient care

For ingestion, the patient is treated as if poisoned with a strong acid. Gastric lavage is administered through a nasogastric tube. Bronchoalveolar lavage or penicillamine may be used.

See also: poisoning