Skin-lightening Cream Caused CNS Damage?

 Skin-lightening Cream Caused CNS Damage? 

skin-lightening cream has shown a devastating effect on the central nervous system (CNS).

A patient from California had significant CNS damage due to its highly toxic mercury levels as confirmed by a UC San Francisco-led report. The woman first sought medical help for involuntary muscle movement and weakness in her shoulders and arms.  After two weeks, she was admitted to a hospital with symptoms of- blurry vision, unsteady gait and difficulty speaking. 

1. Blood and urine tests confirmed mercury poisoning. 
2. The cream was found to contain methylmercury, a form of organic mercury.
3. This is the first known case of methylmercury poisoning  U.S in nearly 50 years. 
4. In this case, the patient used a skin-lightening product containing organic mercury, which is far more toxic than inorganic mercury.
5. CNS toxicity, is the hallmark of organic mercury - it typically comes on after weeks to months of exposure and quickly progresses and worsens even after cessation of use. 
6. Unfortunately, chelation therapy, which is effective in inorganic mercury poisoning, has not been established to be efficacious for methylmercury.

• Points to Note

》 When buying skin creams:

a. Check that the product has a protective foil seal under the lid.

b. Purchase creams from well-known stores.

c. Avoid those with hand-made labels or without labels.

d. Ingredients must be listed, and directions and warnings should be in english