Mercury study report to Congress. Volume 5. Health effects of mercury and mercury compounds

This volume summarizes the available information on human health effects and animal data for hazard identification and dose-response assessment for three forms of mercury: elemental mercury, mercury chloride (inorganic mercury), and methylmercury (organic mercury). Effects are summarized by endpoint. The risk assessment evaluates carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, developmental toxicity and general systemic toxicity of these chemical species of mercury. Toxicokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) are described for each of the three mercury species. Reference doses are calculated for inorganic and methylmercury; a reference concentrations for inhaled elemental mercury is provided. A quantitative analysis of factors contributing to variability and uncertainty in the methylmercury RfD is provided in an appendix. Interactions and sensitive populations are described. the draft volume assesses ongoing research and research needs to reduce uncertainty surrounding adverse human health consequences of methylmercury exposure.