From the Guidelines
Elevated urine arsenic levels are a significant concern and require immediate attention to prevent long-term health consequences, including cancer and organ damage, as highlighted by the American Cancer Society 1. To address elevated urine arsenic levels, it is crucial to determine the source of exposure and whether the arsenic is organic or inorganic.
- Inorganic arsenic is the more toxic form and has been linked to cancer, as well as damage to the nervous system, skin, liver, and kidneys 1.
- Organic arsenic, found in seafood, is generally considered harmless. The primary sources of human exposure to arsenic are water and food, with contaminated drinking water being a significant concern, particularly in certain regions of the United States 1.
- Common sources of arsenic exposure include:
- Contaminated drinking water
- Certain occupational exposures
- Some herbal medicines
- Pressure-treated wood Immediate removal from the exposure source is essential, and treatment may include chelation therapy with medications such as dimercaprol (BAL), succimer (DMSA), or D-penicillamine, typically administered under medical supervision for several days to weeks depending on severity 1. Supportive care, including hydration and monitoring of organ function, is also crucial in managing arsenic toxicity. For mild elevations without symptoms, simply identifying and eliminating the exposure source may be sufficient. However, it is essential to note that arsenic toxicity can have severe consequences, and prompt intervention is necessary to prevent long-term health damage. Follow-up testing is necessary to ensure levels are decreasing after intervention, and individuals should be aware of the potential risks associated with arsenic exposure, including cancer and organ damage 1.
From the Research
Elevated Urine Arsenic
- Elevated urine arsenic levels can be an indication of arsenic poisoning, which can occur through various routes of exposure, including diet, drinking water, and occupational conditions 2, 3, 4.
- Arsenic toxicity can cause a range of health effects, including skin lesions, cardiovascular symptoms, and multi-organ failure 2.
- The treatment of arsenic poisoning often involves the use of chelating agents, such as dimercaptopropanol (BAL), dimercapto-propanesulfonate (DMPS), and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), which can help to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term health effects 2, 5.
- In cases of acute arsenic poisoning, initial treatment with BAL combined with DMPS may be considered, followed by treatment with DMSA 2, 6.
- The excretion half-life of arsenic can vary depending on the individual and the treatment used, but it is generally faster in children than in adults 6.
Sources of Arsenic Exposure
- Arsenic can be found in a variety of sources, including food, drinking water, air, and soil 3, 4.
- Occupational exposure to arsenic can occur in industries such as pesticide and herbicide production, wood preservation, and semiconductor manufacturing 5.
- Dietary exposure to arsenic can occur through the consumption of contaminated food, such as rice, fish, and shellfish 4.
Health Effects of Arsenic Exposure
- Arsenic exposure has been linked to a range of health effects, including gastroenteritis, neurological manifestations, vascular changes, diabetes, and various types of cancer 4.
- The health effects of arsenic exposure can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure, as well as individual factors such as age and nutritional status 2, 4.