While the studies and patient concerns establishing the invasive impacts of cobalt toxicity resulting from metal-on-metal hip implants are accessible online, however, metal-on-metal hip implants are still widely used in total hip replacement surgeries today. In addition to the neurological concerns that cobalt poisoning poses, when combined with chromium, the cobalt ions can contribute to loss of appetite, weight loss, and low energy.Ĭhromium poisoning alone has also been associated with skin inflammation, renal failure, cardiovascular issues, and more. In another study dating back to 2016, researchers suggested that some implants released metal particles and could be responsible for toxicity. These metal particles predominantly consist of cobalt and chromium ions. Seven of the nine in the study showed short term memory loss and possible dementia. Out of 10 patients studied, nine experienced neuropsychiatric complications due to cobalt and chromium toxicity.Īll nine participants who experienced those complications fulfilled the criteria for depression, and three of those patients were being treated for it. The Data on Cobalt Poisoning and Neuropsychiatric ComplicationsĪ 2017 study in BMC Psychiatry looked at ten cases of metal-on-metal hip replacements. Unfortunately, her story is one lived by the many who cope with neurological issues as a result of cobalt toxicity. The effects of the cobalt alloy hips were life-altering for Frances. Firefighters should wear a full set of protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving cobalt metal, dust, and fume.“I developed memory loss, severe tinnitus, visual disturbances, confusion and PTSD-like rage/anxiety attacks,” she shares, as well as a migraine that landed her in the ER. Isolate the hazard area and deny access to unnecessary personnel. Fires involving cobalt metal, dust, and fume should be fought upwind from the maximum distance possible. Dry sand, dry dolomite, dry graphite powder, or sodium chloride have been recommended for fighting fires involving cobalt. All workers should be familiar with emergency procedures, the location and proper use of emergency equipment, and methods of protecting themselves during rescue operations.Įxtinguishant: DO NOT USE WATER. Remove an incapacitated worker from further exposure and implement appropriate emergency procedures (e.g., those listed on the Material Safety Data Sheet required by OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard. Methods that are effective in controlling worker exposures to cobalt metal, dust, and fume, depending on the feasibility of implementation, are as follows: Chronic cobalt poisoning may cause polycythemia, hyperplasia of the bone marrow and thyroid gland, pericardial effusion, and damage to the alpha cells of the pancreas. Chronic respiratory exposure results in reduced lung function, increased fibrotic changes on chest X-ray, production of scanty mucoid sputum, and shortness of breath. Following sensitization of the respiratory system, cobalt exposure causes an obstructive lung disease with wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath. Following skin sensitization, contact with cobalt causes eruptions of dermatitis in creases and on frictional surfaces of the arms, legs, and neck. In sensitized individuals, exposure causes an asthma-like attack, with wheezing, bronchospasm, and dyspnea Ingestion of cobalt may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a sensation of hotness.Ĭhronic exposure: Chronic exposure to cobalt metal, dust, or fume may cause respiratory or dermatologic signs and symptoms. Acute exposure: Acute exposure to cobalt metal, dust, and fume is characterized by irritation of the eyes and, to a lesser extent, irritation of the skin.
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