Mercury toxicity due to use of a cosmetic cream

The Arizona Department of Health Services performed an investigation to determine the health effects associated with the use of a mercury-containing beauty cream. A urine test for mercury was offered to cream users who contacted the Arizona Department of Health Sen;rices. Those with urine mercury levels >20 mu g/L were offered clinical evaluation, Eighty-nine urine specimens were submitted for testing. Of these, 66 showed an elevated urine mercury level (>20 mu g/L) and TT people were evaluated in clinic. There were no major abnormalities found through physical examination or laboratory testing. Urine mercury levels declined from an initial mean of 170 mu g/L to 32 mu g/L at the final test (mean, 139 days later). The high urine mercury levels indicate that the use of this cosmetic cream constitutes a significant exposure. Neuropsychiatric symptoms were frequently reported, but few objective signs were noted.