Geri

Thallium is a grayish-silver-white metal that is highly toxic. While some inorganic ions (e.g., sodium, potassium, zinc, selenium, iodine) are essential for metabolism, others (e.g., mercury, cadmium, lead) serve no biological function and are toxic when accumulated in high concentrations.

Sources of Thallium Exposure:

Thallium is a rare but highly toxic element primarily found in industrial settings. It is used in:

  • Pesticides and rodenticides (for pest control).
  • Nitrate, sulfate, and iodide salts in:
    • Cardiac imaging (to assess myocardial contractility).
    • Contrast agents in optical lens manufacturing.

Despite its limited applications, thallium is extremely toxic and can be fatal if ingested.

  • Do not eat for 2-3 hours before the test; drinking still water is allowed.
  • Refrain from smoking for at least 30 minutes before the test.

 

  • Diagnosis of thallium poisoning, particularly in individuals with occupational or environmental exposure.
  • Testing workers involved in heavy metal mining and processing.

Causes of Elevated Thallium Levels in Blood:

  • Thallium intoxication (acute or chronic exposure).