Chromium Poisoning with Analytical Aspects and Management

Abstract

Chromium is a hard grey metal. It is unstable in the presence of oxygen and produces a layer of oxide which makes it resistant to corrosion. It is a natural element, and also formed during human activities. Chromium is an essential trace element for men and works as cofactor for insulin. It takes part in metabolism of carbohydrate, lipid and protein. In industry, it is widely used in chrome plating due to its corrosion resistance property. Source of toxic exposure of chromium is occupational as well as non-occupational. Pathway of exposure is mainly through skin, inhalation, ingestion and drinking water. It produces various reactive intermediates and free radicals in the body which cause the toxicity. Its toxic effects involve all the body systems as well as local exposed region. Chromium also has genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. Management of the toxicity is mainly symptomatic. Various studies have been performed on animals to find out role of ascorbic acid, N-acetyl cysteine and other new compounds in the management of chromium toxicity.