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International Journal of Clinical... Sep 1989Mustards have become an important topic of global discussion in recent years. The latest extensive reports and conference of 145 nations in Paris (January 13, 1989)... (Review)
Review
Mustards have become an important topic of global discussion in recent years. The latest extensive reports and conference of 145 nations in Paris (January 13, 1989) reveal that several countries have stockpiled large quantities of mustard gas. This situation creates an imminent danger to accidental or intentional exposure of this gas to civil populations throughout the world. In view of the sparse literature on the toxic nature of mustard gas, we have tried to present an integrated panorama of this compound and its derivatives. In this article, efforts were made to review mustard gas--its chemical nature, mode of action, methods available for its analysis in biological fluids and target organs, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion and its toxicity to various organs. The effects of mustard poisoning may be local, systemic, or both, depending on environmental conditions, exposed organs, and the extent and duration of exposure. The toxic effects of mustard include inhibition of mitosis, NAD depletion, decreased tissue respiration and finally cell death. Most of the toxic effects are related to alkylation of DNA. Mustards are also selective in their accumulation in fat tissue. The immediate organs affected after mustard exposure are skin, eyes, and lungs. Sulfur mustard has also been reported to be a potent carcinogen. Burns caused by mustard are severe and require long healing periods. Depending on the type and time of exposure, mustard renders persons disabled temporarily or permanently. Various antidotes such as sodium thiosulfate, dexamethasone, promethazine, heparin, vitamin E and atropine have been recommended for combating mustard poisoning. Protective clothing can substantially reduce the toxic effects of mustard exposure. The best possible way of eliminating mustard hazard is to ban its use completely.
Topics: Chemical Warfare; History, 20th Century; Humans; Mustard Compounds; Mustard Gas
PubMed: 2681003
DOI: No ID Found -
The Overseas Post-graduate Medical... Jul 1948
Topics: Mechlorethamine; Mustard Compounds; Mustard Plant; Nitrogen; Nitrogen Compounds
PubMed: 18870299
DOI: No ID Found -
Texas Cancer Bulletin 1948
Topics: Mechlorethamine; Mustard Compounds; Mustard Plant; Nitrogen; Nitrogen Compounds
PubMed: 18873253
DOI: No ID Found -
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology Jan 2006As one of the most important vesicant agents, the destructive properties of mustards on the skin, eyes and respiratory system, combined with a lack of antidote, makes... (Review)
Review
As one of the most important vesicant agents, the destructive properties of mustards on the skin, eyes and respiratory system, combined with a lack of antidote, makes them effective weapons. Such weapons are inexpensive, easily obtainable and frequently stockpiled. Sulphur mustard (mustard gas) has been used as a chemical warfare agent in at least 10 conflicts. In this article, the use of mustard as a potential agent of chemical warfare and terrorism is outlined. The dose-dependent effects of acute sulphur mustard exposure on the skin, eyes, and respiratory system are described, as well as the possible extents of injuries, the mechanisms of action and the long-term complications. Prevention and management of mustard exposure are briefly discussed. The need for awareness and preparedness in the dermatological community regarding mustard exposure is emphasized.
Topics: Adult; Chemical Terrorism; Chemical Warfare Agents; Child; Dermatologic Agents; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Humans; Mustard Compounds; Mustard Gas; Nitrogen Mustard Compounds; Skin; Skin Diseases; Time Factors
PubMed: 16309468
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2005.01945.x -
The New Orleans Medical and Surgical... Jul 1948
Topics: Mechlorethamine; Mustard Compounds; Mustard Plant; Nitrogen; Nitrogen Compounds
PubMed: 18870271
DOI: No ID Found -
Lancet (London, England) Dec 1958
Topics: Mechlorethamine; Mustard Plant; Nitrogen; Nitrogen Mustard Compounds
PubMed: 13612213
DOI: No ID Found -
Proceedings of the Royal Society of... Aug 1963
Topics: Chlorambucil; Cyclophosphamide; Genetic Diseases, X-Linked; Hodgkin Disease; Humans; Leukemia, Hairy Cell; Lymphatic Diseases; Melphalan; Nitrogen Mustard Compounds; Peptide Nucleic Acids; Prednisolone; Prednisone; Severe Combined Immunodeficiency; Thiotepa
PubMed: 14052445
DOI: No ID Found -
Cancer Treatment Reviews Sep 1983
Topics: Animals; Antineoplastic Agents; Cyclophosphamide; Humans; Ifosfamide; Nitrogen Mustard Compounds; Structure-Activity Relationship
PubMed: 6627244
DOI: 10.1016/s0305-7372(83)80002-4 -
McGill Medical Journal Oct 1949
Topics: Mechlorethamine; Nitrogen Mustard Compounds
PubMed: 15402248
DOI: No ID Found -
Annals of Surgery Aug 1953
Topics: Aneurysm; Humans; Mechlorethamine; Nitrogen Mustard Compounds
PubMed: 13066011
DOI: 10.1097/00000658-195308000-00007