Poisoning of animals with fluoride compounds. Food poisoning with fluoride compounds

Pollution remains one of the pressing environmental and hygienic problems. environment fluorine compounds, the source of which is the aluminum industry. Pathological conditions develop as with a short-term effect on the body high concentrations fluorine and its compounds, and with prolonged exposure to small quantities. Chronic intoxication with fluoride compounds on the human body leads to the development of fluorosis, which accounts for 70% of all occupational diseases in this industry. Fluorosis - general disease, characterized by a polymorphic and dynamic clinical picture. As the period of exposure to fluorine compounds increases, pathological changes in the human body increase.

Occupational skeletal fluorosis develops faster in at a young age even with little experience working with fluorine in production. Ultimately, fluorosis leads to coarsening and thickening of bones, which is revealed by x-ray examination. In their works devoted to the study of the characteristics of the course of occupational fluorosis, the authors identified the main x-ray morphological symptoms of developing fluorosis: restructuring of the bone structure and compaction of bone tissue, moderate hyperostosis, narrowing of the bone marrow space and calcification of the ligamentous apparatus. Most early changes with occupational fluorosis were noted structural changes in spongy tissue, occurring due to thickening and compaction of bone beams. The result of the effect of fluorine compounds on the periosteum and articular cartilage Pathology of the musculoskeletal system was revealed in the form of articular and paraarticular lesions. In the long term after stopping contact with fluoride, in some cases patients may experience a decrease in radiological signs osteosclerosis of the spinal bodies of the lumbar spine and cylindrical bones, although no one had a complete recovery normal structure bone tissue.

The likelihood of an occupational disease depends on the intensity of exposure to a harmful production factor and work experience. Meanwhile, convincing data have accumulated on significant individual differences in the development of occupational diseases. Danilov I.P. et al. (2001), studying the features of genetic status in different nature lesions of bone tissue, identified markers of susceptibility and resistance to the development of fluorosis. The possibility of developing osteoporosis during chronic fluoride intoxication is determined, first of all, by the affinity of fluoride for connective tissue. From these positions, the development of osteoporosis with fluorosis seems more natural than osteosclerosis, the development of which is based on the mineralizing effect of fluoride. It has been reliably proven that markers of susceptibility to fluorosis are phenotypes 0 (AB0), P+, a marker of tolerance is P-, and a marker for the development of osteosclerosis is phenotype B (AB0). As a rule, bone fluorosis occurs against the background of various and diverse general disorders, which usually precede it. General phenomena in case of chronic fluoride intoxication, they are characterized by changes in many organs and systems (impaired function of the nervous system, cardiovascular disorders, kidney irritation, gastrointestinal tract disorders, liver damage, changes in the blood system, dysfunction of some endocrine organs, suffers enzymatic activity, changes in mineral metabolism, pathological changes).

Among the early signs of fluoride: sensitivity disorders of teeth and gums, jaggedness and wear of teeth, brownish staining and mottling of tooth enamel, caries; gingivitis and periodontal disease; hemorrhagic phenomena; , etc.

In case of severe poisoning, chronic pneumonia and bronchial asthma are observed (usually preceded by chronic bronchitis), pneumosclerosis, bronchiectasis. When the upper respiratory tract is affected, patients complain of a burning sensation in the nasopharynx, runny nose with increased secretion of liquid secretions, and nosebleeds. Catarrhal changes in the mucous membrane are objectively determined, predominantly of a subatrophic nature with localization in the nasal cavity, on back wall pharynx, less often larynx. Changes in the top respiratory tract usually appear after 3-4 years of contact with fluorine compounds.

When the functions of the bronchopulmonary system are impaired, subjective symptoms are mild. When studying the function of external respiration in most patients, a violation of bronchial obstruction is detected according to the Tiffno index, the volume of maximum expiratory flow (less than 4.5 l/sec. in men and 3.5 l/sec. in women). The genesis of the noted disorders is associated with the effect of fluoride ions on the mechanisms regulating the tone of the bronchial muscles.

Persons with occupational fluorosis also experience work disturbances cardiovascular system. Subjective symptoms are manifested by complaints of mild, non-radiating pain in the heart area. Objectively, most patients exhibit muted heart sounds and a decrease in heart rate. Bradycardia is usually associated with arterial hypotension. At orthostatic test hyperreactivity is detected (increased heart rate by more than 24 beats per minute). Blood pressure is unstable and fluctuates from low to high values. Vascular dystonia is detected, early sign which is the asymmetry of rheographic indicators of tone and blood supply to the forearms (by more than 15%). A decrease in the intensity and rate of blood filling of the forearms is also characteristic (RI< 0.6) и печени (РИ < 0,4). Увеличение ударного и минутного объема (УОК и МОК) в initial stage intoxication turns out to be insufficient to increase blood supply to the forearms and liver, a decrease in which is associated both with a violation of the reactivity and neurohumoral regulation of the vascular system, and with the direct effect of fluorine ion on vascular wall. The described vascular disorders lead to compensatory restructuring of the heart and geodynamics, manifested in cardiac hyperfunction.

The most common ECG changes in fluorosis are depression of the T wave, which, in combination with other pathological signs, may indicate myocardial dystrophy.

Feature coronary disease heart disease in men with fluorosis is its late development, combined, however, with well-known risk factors for the occurrence of atherosclerosis. An assumption is made about the effect of prolonged exposure to fluorides in relation to the development of coronary artery disease, mediated through the tropism of fluoride to the fibroblast as the central figure of the functional system of connective tissue, which determines the outcomes chronic inflammation.

In case of chronic intoxication with fluorine and its compounds, disturbances in the work are also observed. digestive tract. There are complaints of pain in the epigastric region, dyspeptic disorders, milk intolerance and fatty foods. On palpation, pain is felt in the epigastric region. The secretory and acid-forming functions of the stomach are increased, and mucus formation increases. X-rays reveal dyskinetic phenomena with a tendency to increase tone, increased peristalsis of the stomach and intestines; in a number of patients, a disturbance in the relief of the mucous membrane is detected in the form of thickening of folds and their deformation. Functional and radiological studies indicate the development of gastritis.

In case of liver damage, subjective symptoms include complaints of a feeling of pressure and heaviness in the right hypochondrium. Possible increase in liver size. The antitoxic and synthesizing functions of the liver are often impaired - the synthesis of hippuric acid (Quick-Pytel test) and glucuronides (load test with salicylamide) is reduced. Shifts in protein metabolism are detected - a decrease in albumin content and an increase in globulins in the blood serum, and disturbances in sediment samples. Disturbances in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates are recorded - an increase in the level of bettalipoproteins in the blood serum, and often an increase in the content of bilirubin in the blood serum.

In the work of V.M. Kolmogortseva (1981), the inhibition of the main respiratory enzymes of the liver established during chronic fluoride intoxication gives reason to assume that many metabolic effects, in particular, disorganization of various aspects of metabolism associated with the liver, are apparently in direct connection with a violation of energy supply during prolonged exposure to fluorides.

Severe inhibition of the enzyme succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) of the tubular epithelium of the kidneys, noted in chronic fluoride poisoning, can cause a violation of their functional state, in particular, affect the exchange of electrolytes. In-depth functional study kidney reveals a decrease in glomerular filtration and inhibition of the secretory function of the tubular apparatus.

With disorders of the nervous and endocrine systems, patients complain of increased fatigue, irritability, a tendency to headaches, slight dizziness, increased sweating, cramps of certain muscle groups, a feeling of “crawling”, numbness in the limbs.

Revealed vegetative-vascular dystonia: persistent red dermographism with a tendency to diffuse, positive Aschner's sign, irritative reaction to ultraviolet irradiation.

Changes are detected in functional state adrenal cortex, mainly of an adaptive nature. They are caused by activation of the glucocorticoid function of the adrenal cortex. Characteristic is an increase in the spontaneous excretion of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids, as well as the absolute and relative content of unconjugated 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in the daily amount of urine.

Persons exposed to fluoride intoxication for a long time show signs of early aging. In women, oligomenorrhea, adnexitis, decreased lactation capacity, and accumulation of fluoride in the biological media of the mother and fetus are possible with increasing pregnancy. When studying disorders of the reproductive function of women living near aluminum production, a high percentage of pathologies were noted for such indicators as gestosis in pregnant women, anemia, threat of miscarriage, premature rupture of amniotic fluid, and labor anomalies. In addition, there is an increase in the incidence of newborns.

In men suffering from fluorosis, a decrease in libido, a disorder of ejacular and erectile functions are recorded, significant changes in the content of androgens and extragens in the blood and urine are observed, which is due to both a decrease in their production and a violation of hormone metabolism.

It should be noted that aluminum production workers have occupational skin diseases, including allergic dermatitis and eczema.

Thus, fluoride compounds significantly affect the health of workers at aluminum enterprises. In addition, emissions from this production, polluting environmental objects near the location of factories, can increase the growth of morbidity among the population living in these territories.

fluoride intoxication fluorosis skeleton

Literature

1. Danilov I.P., Protasov V.V., Lotosh E.A., Luzina F.A. Some genetic markers of susceptibility to occupational fluorosis. - Occupational and industrial medicine. Ecology, 2001, No. 7.- P.30-33.
2. Kolmogortseva V.M. The influence of sodium fluoride on the activity of respiratory enzymes of the liver and kidneys // Issues of hygiene and occupational pathology in non-ferrous and ferrous metallurgy / Sat. scientific works. - Moscow, 1981. - Issue III. - P. 42-45.
3. Kuzmin D.V. Comparative analysis indicators of reproductive health of women living in areas where aluminum production is located. - Gig. and sanitation.-2007, No. 3.-P.13-15.
4. Ornitsan E.Yu., Chashchin M.V., Zibarev E.V. Features of the course of occupational fluorosis. - Occupational medicine and industrial ecology.-2004, No. 12.-P.27-29.
5. Razumov V.V., Chechenin G.I., Lukyanova M.V. and others. About coronary heart disease with fluorosis. - Occupational medicine and industrial ecology.-2004, No. 4.-P.-33-35.
6. Chashchin M.V., Kuzmin A.V. Epidemiology bronchial asthma among aluminum production workers. - Occupational medicine and industrial ecology.-2001, No. 11.-P.10-11.
7. Yanin E.P. Biogeochemical role and ecological and hygienic significance of fluorine. - Environmental problems environment and natural resources.-2009.-Iss. 4.-P.20-108

Of the inorganic fluorine compounds, the most toxic are gaseous ones - fluorine, hydrogen fluoride, silicon tetrafluoride. The toxicity of fluorine salts increases as their solubility increases and biological environments. Well-soluble fluoride salts (fluorides of sodium, potassium, zinc, tin, silver, mercury, lithium, barium, cryolite, sodium silicofluoride, ammonium hydrofluoride, etc.) are close in toxicity to hydrogen fluoride, and poorly soluble ones (fluorides of aluminum, magnesium, calcium , lead, strontium, copper, chromium, etc.) are 5-10 times less toxic than hydrogen fluoride. With the simultaneous content of several fluorine compounds in the air, differing in their state of aggregation and solubility in biological media, the toxic effect is summed up.

Hydrogen fluoride is a colorless gas with very high solubility in water. Aqueous solutions of hydrogen fluoride are called hydrofluoric acid. Hydrofluoric acid "smoke" in humid air, because... escaping hydrogen fluoride forms fog with air moisture. Hydrogen fluoride has a pronounced irritant effect on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and eyes. In low concentrations with chronic exposure, it, like fluorides, causes chronic poisoning due to fluoride ions. In industrial conditions, hydrogen fluoride is not found separately from fluorides, so it is difficult to distinguish which symptoms of poisoning are caused by the action of hydrogen fluoride and which by the action of fluorine ion. Hydrogen fluoride probably has an irritating effect on the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, and the violation calcium metabolism and changes in the skeleton are associated with the action of fluorine ion.

Fluorine is a biological element found in atmospheric air, soils, surface and groundwater, in plant and animal organisms, found under normal conditions in all organs human body. The daily intake of fluoride into the human body is 0.3-1.8 mg, of which 0.01-0.04 mg enters the inhaled air in industrial areas. At inhalation route intake of fluorine compounds is more toxic than with oral administration.

With prolonged intake of fluoride compounds into the body of workers, a pronounced material accumulation occurs, mainly in bone tissue, which is most affected during chronic intoxication. Up to 99% of fluoride entering the body is retained in bones and teeth. The fluorine content in the skeleton gradually increases in proportion to the incoming amount of poison, however, over time, the deposition of fluoride in bone tissue decreases and a dynamic equilibrium occurs. Higher retention of fluoride in the body is observed in women and children. Fluoride is excreted from the body mainly through the kidneys (up to 80%), much less of it is excreted through the intestines (10-15%), with sweat, saliva, and milk. Urinary fluoride excretion is usually increased both during and after exposure due to the mobilization of fluoride from the skeleton.

The toxic effect of inorganic fluorides is due to the resorptive effect of fluorine ion. Possessing exceptionally high reactivity and penetrating through the body's protective barters, fluorine is capable of causing disorganization of all types of metabolism, disrupting the vital activity of cells, organs and the body as a whole. The mechanism of the damaging effect of fluoride on the body is multifaceted. The leading place in this mechanism belongs to the disruption by fluorine of the activity of many key enzymes that ensure the normal course of oxidative processes, the production energy resources and the implementation of the most important synthetic processes. Inhibition of synthetic activity is largely associated with the formation of stable fluorine compounds with ions of various metals calcium, zinc and especially manganese and magnesium, which activate a number of the most important, including key, enzymes of the body: phosphoglucomutase, ATP-phosphoglycerotransphorylase, enolase, bone phosphatase, cholinesterase , carboxylase, succindehyrogenase and many others. At the same time, the electrolyte balance is disturbed, because When fluorine combines with ionized metals, the latter are removed from the “electrolyte system” and become biologically inert. All this leads to disruption of metabolism, tissue respiration, neuroendocrine regulation, trophism, etc. Significant influence fluorine affects carbohydrate metabolism: inhibiting enolase, carboxylase pyruvic acid, phosphoglucomutase, it blocks the intracellular metabolism of carbohydrates at the stage of converting citrate into further products of its metabolism. Fluorine ion inhibits oxidation fatty acids at the stage preceding the formation of beta acids, as well as succinate dehydrogenase, inhibits the synthesis of acetylcholine and partially blocks acetylcholinesterase. Cytochrome C is sensitive to fluorine. At the same time, phosphorus-calcium metabolism is disrupted: fluorapatite is formed with properties different from those of hydroxyapatite, and enzymatic activity is disorganized cellular elements bones. Periosteal bone formations develop in proportion to the mechanical weakness of the old bone. It is also noted negative influence fluorine on the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides and collagen in bone tissue. These shifts change the structure, physicochemical properties of the bone, disrupt resorption processes, which causes increased secretion hydroxyproline in urine. Pathomorphological processes in bone tissue under the influence of fluorides are characterized by changes in the correlation and activity of compensatory-adaptive reactions with manifest disorders of mineral metabolism. An increase in osteoplastic activity, a revival of the osteoclastic reaction with a change in the number of osteocytes and the phenomena of periosteocytic osteolysis were noted. There is also an indirect effect of fluoride on the skeleton through parathyroid cells and “C” cells thyroid gland, producing parathyroid hormone and thyrocalcitonin, respectively, with calcium-mobilizing and calcium-pexic properties.

Fluorine has a significant effect on the structure and function of a number of endocrine glands: the morphofunctional activity of the adrenal cortex and the corticotropic function of the adenohypophysis are reduced, hypogonadism is observed, a decrease in androgen production and hyperexcretion of estrogens in men. Liver pathology developing during fluorosis plays a significant role in metabolic disorders.

With fluoride intoxication, immunobiological reactivity changes, the phagocytic activity of leukocytes and the formation of agglutinins decreases. Fluoride can cause allergies and intolerance in some people, including in conditions of industrial contact.

Fluorine is not one of the poisons that directly affects the blood system. At the same time, an increase in volume, a decrease in the osmotic resistance of erythrocytes, blood viscosity, hematocrit, as well as changes indicating hypercoagulation are detected, and in some cases manifestations of irritation of the red sprout of the bone marrow are noted.

Inorganic fluorine compounds, when inhaled into the body, even in relatively small concentrations, cause a pronounced gonadotoxic effect, as well as unfavorable long-term consequences - mutagenic and embryotoxic effects. Convincing data on the carcinogenic activity of fluorine compounds have not yet been obtained. In cryolite production workers, the frequency of chromosomal damage in lymphocytes increases up to 40 times peripheral blood. The frequency of induced chromosomal damage is directly proportional to the concentration of fluoride in the air and practically does not depend on the age of workers. Appearance chromosomal disorders in somatic cells indicates the possibility of their occurrence in generative (germ) cells.

The wide spectrum of action of fluorine explains its universal influence on living organisms and diversity clinical manifestations fluoride intoxication. Mechanisms toxic effect fluorine depend on the form of the compound entering the body. Inhalation of fluoride gas causes severe irritation of the respiratory tract. Stable shape the existence of fluorine in the body is the F ion, and in the acidic environment of the stomach - hydrofluoric acid HF. Fluorosis affects target organs: teeth, skeleton, liver, kidneys, central nervous system. The mechanism of fluorosis is determined by the formation of poorly soluble salts and complex compounds of fluorine with cations of nutrients, as well as an inhibitory effect on proteins. HF vapors are extremely toxic (MPC = 0.5 mg/m3), which is associated with a dehydrating effect on respiratory tract tissue cells. At an intracellular concentration of 0.2-1.0 mmol/kg, fluorine inhibits the activity of some esterases, lipases, glutamine synthetase, enolase, and cytochrome oxidase. Fluorine is considered an inhibitor of glycolysis.

In small quantities, fluorine is a biological element. It promotes the formation of calcium phosphorus salts necessary for the construction of dental and bone tissues; takes part in intimate processes of tissue metabolism. Physiological need in this bioelement is fully satisfied when taken orally with water and food.

Fluoride depot is highly mineralized tissue. In bones and teeth, fluorine is included mainly in the mineral part. On the crystalline surface of bone minerals, hydroxyl and bicarbonate fluoride ions are exchanged to form fluorapatite. Fluorine accumulation occurs constantly. The process of delaying it depends on the size of the administered dose and the amount of fluoride already deposited in the skeleton. When bone tissue approaches complete saturation, accumulation decreases significantly.

Fluoride is excreted from the body through urine and through the intestines. When administered via inhalation, fluoride compounds are more toxic than when administered orally. Elevated concentrations of fluoride can cause disorganization of all types of metabolism, disrupting the vital activity of cells, organs and the body as a whole. The mechanism of the damaging effect of fluorine is multifaceted, which explains its universal pathogenetic effect on a living organism and the variety of manifestations of fluoride intoxication.

For the human body, taking therapeutic doses of fluorine-containing compounds is harmless.

An overdose of fluoride preparations, like other drugs, can cause symptoms of poisoning in the human body. A distinction is made between acute and chronic toxicity. When high doses of fluoride enter the body, acute poisoning occurs, accompanied by a number of symptoms including fatal outcome. Regular intake of fluoride into the body during tooth development in doses exceeding the recommended ones can cause changes in the hard tissues of the tooth (fluorosis). With the constant intake of excess doses of fluoride into the body over several years, signs of fluorosis of the skeletal system arise (deformations, calcification of ligaments and joints, growth retardation). The value of the acute lethal dose of fluoride, depending on the type of fluorine-containing compound and its solubility in water, the rate of absorption in the gastrointestinal tract intestinal tract, the state of the body’s acid-base balance and pH value, is for an adult from 32 to 64 mg per kilogram of body weight. This dose is called the maximum tolerated toxic dose (CTD, Certainly Toxic Dose). However, the possibility of death from taking a dose of a fluoride-containing drug that is less than the lower limit of the maximum tolerated toxic dose should not be excluded. There are known cases of poisoning of children from fatal, when the so-called permissible toxic dose (PTD, Probably Toxic Dose) was 5 mg of fluoride per 1 kg of body weight. When taking such a dose, immediate attention must be given medical care. For a three-year-old child weighing 15 kg, this dose corresponds to

150 tablets of 0.5 mg. Therefore, more than one hundred tablets should never be prescribed for one course of treatment. PTD is achieved by drinking 75 liters of fluoridated water containing 1 ppm fluoride or taking 243 g of fluoridated salt. When prescribing medications to a patient local prevention The dentist must know the total amount of fluoride taken by the patient and ensure that PTD limits are not exceeded. Correct Application fluoride-containing anti-caries prevention agents prevent the achievement of an acceptable toxic dose.

Children should not use fluoride-containing medications without adult supervision.

Thus, swallowing the contents of an entire tube of toothpaste for adults means ingesting 100 mg of fluoride, which for a three-year-old child weighing 15 kg exceeds the PTD by 30%.

Application of highly concentrated fluoride-containing preparations should only be carried out by a doctor.

In this case, patients must be under constant supervision of a dentist. Applications with excessive doses of fluoride-containing drugs should not be used. To avoid ingesting fluoride, patients should rinse their mouth thoroughly after application.

The main signs of acute fluoride poisoning are nausea, vomiting and pain in the abdominal area, which occur within a few minutes after taking an overdose of a fluoride-containing drug. General symptoms of poisoning may appear, such as increased salivation, lacrimation, headaches, copious discharge cold sweat. Then there is general weakness of the body, convulsions and tetany.

These symptoms develop as a result of a decrease in the content of calcium ions in the blood plasma and an increase in the concentration of potassium ions (signs of cell death). Then the pulse rate decreases, cardiac arrhythmia occurs, blood pressure drops sharply and breathing becomes impaired, followed by the development of respiratory acidosis. Death may occur within a few hours.

To reduce the amount of fluoride absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, as an emergency aid, the victim is given drugs that induce vomiting, then calcium-containing solutions (for example, calcium chloride or gluconate, in their absence - milk). The victim must be hospitalized as quickly as possible. In case of violation swallowing reflex or the presence of convulsions (danger of aspiration), measures that induce vomiting are contraindicated.

To avoid taking sublethal, dangerous doses for the body when applying gel with high content fluoride (1.23%) should be used individual spoons, while single dose gel should not exceed 2 ml. Excess gel is removed from the lingual and buccal surfaces of the teeth using a saliva ejector. Finally, the patient thoroughly rinses his mouth several times.

When a child under 5 years of age consumes more than 1.5 mg of fluoride on the enamel surface daily permanent teeth Fluorous stains may occur, worsening the aesthetic appearance of the teeth. Fluorosis of the enamel can be caused by repeated or single intake of high doses of fluoride (by swallowing toothpaste). Therefore, the fluoride content in children's toothpastes has been reduced to 250 million.

From a toxicity point of view, a daily dose of fluoride at a concentration of 0.02 mg per 1 kg of body weight per day is not dangerous. Fluorosis skeletal system, as a consequence of chronic intoxication with fluoride compounds, is most often observed in regions where the fluorine content in drinking water exceeds 8 mg/l. However, the first signs of changes in the skeletal system appear already with regular intake of drinking water with a fluoride concentration of 4 mg/l.

Fluoride in normal conditions is a pale yellow gas with a sharp characteristic odor, belongs to the group of halogens. Fluorine is widespread in nature and is part of many minerals: fluorspar, apatite, cryolite, etc. Fluorine is found in spring water and is also a permanent component of plants and animals. Fluorine is a trace element that is necessary for the animal body, taking part in mineral metabolism, promoting the ossification of bone tissue. Some fluorine compounds are used in agriculture and wood processing industry.

Of the fluoride compounds, sodium fluoride is of interest, which is part of many insectofungicides used in agriculture. For example, sodium fluoride and silicofluoride are used to combat locusts (poisoned baits), to spray plants (in a 0.5% solution), etc. Calcium fluoride, used to control garden pests in its pure form or as soil fertilizers, contains fluorides, which often cause poisoning of livestock on pastures.

If these chemicals are handled carelessly, animal feed poisoning can occur.

Brief characteristics of fluoride preparations used in agriculture

Sodium fluoride– off-white or grayish powder, odorless, poorly soluble in cold water, easily cakes during storage. Widely used to exterminate gnawing insects in the caterpillar stage and rodents, and for preserving wood. Toxic doses for cattle and horses range from 10g and above, death of animals occurs from amounts above 50g.

Sodium silicofluoride- a fine, relatively heavy powder, white or slightly yellowish in color, odorless, poorly soluble in water. It is used for pollinating plants, mainly against pests of garden crops, some types of insects and rodents. Both drugs are used in livestock as anthelmintics. WITH therapeutic purpose Only purified preparation can be used. When used as an anthelmintic for equine parascariasis, poisoning occurs only at doses above 50 g per dose.

Barium fluoroacetate– white fine crystalline powder, odorless and tasteless, highly soluble in water. An effective zoocide, used to exterminate gophers and other rodents.

Uralite– a preparation of complex composition containing 77% sodium fluoride, 15% dinitrophen and 8% infusorial earth. Used in the form of a paste or solution having yellow, for preserving wood and preventing its rotting.

Calcium fluoride, dimelin- which are insecticides.

Superphosphates– fertilizers containing fluorine.

Phosphorite flour- refers to fertilizing.

Animal owners have long noticed that animals willingly lick wood or eat vegetation contaminated with fluoride compounds. The lack of mineral nutrition further contributes to the fact that animals especially greedily pounce on scattered powders that look like table salt.

Chronic poisoning of animals (fluorosis) often occurs in endemic areas where there are high levels of fluoride in soil, water and plants. In Russia, such zones are located on the territory of the Kola Peninsula, in the Urals.

Pathogenesis. Fluorine compounds are protoplasmic poisons for the body, which primarily inhibit respiratory enzymes (reducing oxygen consumption by tissues and the formation of lactic acid in muscles), inhibit gastrointestinal enzymes (phosphatosis, enterokinase), disrupting the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, some enzymes of the glycolytic system and acetylcholinesterase.

In animals, fluorine in the blood binds calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and proteins. All this leads to serious changes in mineral metabolism, in the activity of the autonomic and central nervous systems.

Fluorides reduce blood clotting; in the body of animals they predominantly act on bone tissue; chronic intoxication is characterized by damage to bone tissue; young growing animals are most sensitive to fluorides; Animal resistance to fluoride increases if the content of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D in the diet increases; fluoride is excreted from the body of animals through milk and feces.

Clinical picture . Poisoning with fluoride and its compounds in animals can occur in acute, subacute and chronic forms. The chronic form of poisoning is usually called “fluorosis” and it is a consequence of the intake of fluoride into the animal’s body over a long period of time through food or water, which is many times higher than the normal content of this element. Acute poisonings in animals are recorded when sodium fluoride and sodium fluoride are used as anthelmintics for various helminthiases in animals and when these compounds accidentally enter food and water.

Cattle. In acute poisoning with sodium fluoride, the animal develops sudden general weakness. Cows experience drooling, thirst, colic may occur, palpation in the area of the abomasum is painful, diarrhea (feces contain blood), symptoms include grinding of teeth, throwing the head back chest, convulsive muscle contractions and congestion in the lungs with impaired respiratory and cardiac activity. Breathing is usually rapid, pulse is weak and accelerated, body temperature is normal or slightly elevated. With prolonged flow, the temperature can drop to 36°. At clinical examination The veterinarian notes swelling of the rumen, complete cessation of milk production and lack of appetite. In some poisoned animals, examination can reveal congestion and swelling of the mucous membrane oral cavity, clouding of the cornea and dilation of the pupil. Diuresis in poisoned animals is increased, and fluoride is detected in the urine 2-3 days after poisoning. The urine is thicker and darker in color than usual. The death of a poisoned animal occurs either within the first day, or in less severe cases - on the 2-3rd day.

Subacute poisoning occurs in animals with symptoms of damage to the nervous system and is accompanied by symptoms of polyneuritopathy.

In case of chronic fluoride poisoning in animals, we register emaciation, dryness and loss of elasticity of the skin, brittle hair, diarrhea, spotting of tooth enamel, increased fragility of bones, ankylosis and exostosis of the joints, accompanied by lameness in animals.

Small cattle. At acute intoxication In sheep, during a clinical examination, a veterinarian diagnoses the same clinical symptoms as in cattle: anxiety, which later turns into a state of depression, increased breathing, pain on palpation of the abdominal area, salivation, bloody discharge from the nostrils, involuntary defecation and urination. Death occurs within the first 24 hours.

At chronic course with a favorable outcome in poisoned animals, we diagnose fluorosis, dental damage, decreased skin elasticity, anemia, general weakness, poor appetite, progressive emaciation, symptoms of osteoporosis, etc. During a clinical examination, we note bone deformation, thickening of joints, mottling of teeth enamel, and tooth decay.

In goats with acute poisoning, animal owners observe depression with complete absence any reaction to the environment, refusal of feed and water, a sharp decrease in milk yield, and in in serious condition– complete cessation of milk secretion, fibrillary trembling of the muscles, including convulsive contraction of the masticatory muscles – “chomping”, frequent bowel movements in small portions and the urge to urinate with the release of a small amount of clear urine. Body temperature is normal.

Pigs. In case of poisoning, pigs experience general agitation, atony of skeletal muscles, salivation, repeated vomiting, diarrhea (feces contain blood), impaired coordination of movements, difficulty breathing, and asphyxia. With chronic poisoning in pigs, exhaustion, slow growth, and symptoms in young animals and adults are observed.

Horses. In case of mild poisoning, the condition of the animals is depressed, there is no appetite, but extreme thirst. The animal's movements are difficult. Takes place frequent bowel movements liquid feces, pronounced fibrillary muscle tremors (croup muscles, etc.).

Upon examination, the mucous membranes are colored (uralite) yellow or black. Breathing is rapid, shallow. Pulse increased. The temperature is often normal or low-grade.

In case of severe or fatal poisoning in the horse we note general restlessness and agitation of the animal. Colic is often observed. Visible mucous membranes are congestively hyperemic, swollen, painful during defecation. Pulse increased to 80-100 beats per minute, breathing increased to 40-60 per minute. Urine is dark in color and thick in consistency; cramps of various parts of the muscles (trismus). Death occurs quickly (within a few hours) with symptoms of cardiac and respiratory paralysis. Body temperature is within normal limits.

Dogs and cats. Poisoning with fluoride compounds in domestic animals is accidental; acute poisoning occurs with symptoms severe vomiting, diarrhea and severe depression.

Birds. The clinical picture of poisoning in birds occurs with symptoms of agitation, the discharge of foamy liquid from the beak, vomiting, diarrhea, gray-white feces, the bird’s combs are pale, the feathers are dull, tousled, brittle, fall out on the back, egg production in chickens decreases, the egg decreases in size size, the shell is thinned, fragile, or completely absent; phenomena of paralysis and significant mortality.

Pathological changes. Pathological changes in fluoride intoxication depend on the form of poisoning. At acute form When autopsying dead animals, we note well-defined rigor mortis, in abdominal cavity we find a yellowish-turbid exudate, the mucous membrane of the abomasum and thin section the intestines are hemorrhagically inflamed, necrotic in places, we find hemorrhagic foci in the large intestine, the liver is fragile (in horses it is enlarged) The heart is flabby, the blood is liquid, hemolyzed, dark in color; in pigs we find swelling of the fundus of the stomach, hemorrhage of the mucous membrane, ulceration of the stomach, and sometimes intussusception of the small intestine is observed; in birds we find detachment of the mucous membrane of the muscular stomach and inflammation of the intestines.

In chronic fluoride poisoning, pathological changes are very characteristic. The animal's teeth are destroyed, their abrasion is increased, and they are brown in color. The bones have an unusually white color with the presence of exostases in the joints, bone deformation. When conducting a histological examination, a picture of osteoporosis is revealed, as in osteomalacia. The liver is in a state of fatty degeneration. Changes characteristic of chronic parenchymal nephritis are found in the kidneys. The heart muscle, like all muscles, is flabby and paler in color. Under serous membranes find significant amount hemorrhages. The gastrointestinal tract shows signs of chronic inflammation. Lymph nodes enlarged, especially mesenteric.

Diagnosis diagnosed on the basis of medical history and chemical-toxicological examination of feed, water and pathological material. In cases of chronic intoxication, the diagnosis of fluorosis is facilitated by characteristic destructive changes in the teeth.

Differential diagnosis. When conducting differential diagnosis a veterinary specialist differentiates poisoning from diseases of the central nervous system, hypomagnesium tetany in sheep and cattle, acute lead poisoning, and in birds.

Treatment. A specific chemical antidote for fluoride poisoning is calcium chloride. On this basis, as a specific remedy, poisoned animals are injected intravenously with a 20% solution of calcium chloride and the stomach is washed with lime water or a 1-2% solution of sodium bicarbonate. Also, as an antidote for poisoning with fluorine compounds, magnesium sulfate is used in the following doses: for cattle - up to 800g, for small cattle - up to 100g per dose through a tube. You can administer calcium chloride intravenously (200-300 ml of a 10% solution, and orally magnesium sulfate, reducing its dose by 3-4 times. During treatment, you can use calcigluc or calcium borogluconate. Poisoned animals are prescribed astringents, enveloping agents, analgesics, antispasmodics, antimicrobial drugs are used. vitamin preparations(vitamin A, D, C, B and K).

Control and prevention measures. Prevention of poisoning with drugs containing fluorine is based primarily on checking mineral supplements for the presence of fluorine in them. Many mineral fertilizers (superphosphate, etc.) contain a significant amount of fluorine and are often the cause of mass poisoning of animals and poultry. When prescribing mineral fertilizers, specialists at agricultural enterprises must make sure that the “defluorinated” phosphate produced by the industry for feeding animals corresponds to its intended purpose.

Definite preventive value prevents contact of animals with fluorine compounds used in industry.

When organizing the prevention of fluoride poisoning, it is also important to take into account the fact that fluoride compounds are used as pesticides in the fight against locust pests, and some fluoride preparations are used as anthelmintics. In both the first and second cases, if the rules for handling fluoride compounds are violated, cases of acute poisoning are possible.

Of particular danger is chronic intoxication of animals (fluorosis), which is a consequence of the increased fluoride content in feed and drinking water. It must be kept in mind that drinking water should not contain more than 1 mg of fluoride per liter. If the content of sodium fluoride in poultry feed is permissible up to 300-400 mg/kg, then in relation to cattle it is ten times less - 30-40 mg/kg. To prevent chronic poisoning, a mixture consisting of feed chalk, ammonium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, potassium iodide and vitamin C is used. This mixture is introduced into mixed feed and given once a day to calves 5.0-12.0; adult animals 30.0-60.0.

Fluorine is a necessary element that plays a role in the metabolism of mineral processes. Responsible for the structure of teeth and the formation of bone tissue. IN normal quantity fluoride helps the body cope with infection, with its help bones gain strength, heal faster in case of fractures, and teeth are better able to resist caries. Fluoride poisoning occurs when there is an excess of it in the body, as it is highly toxic. In this case, it no longer brings benefit, but provokes the reverse process.

Effect on the body

Fluoride is involved in the process of iron absorption by the body and thus helps to increase hemoglobin, which is important for patients with anemia. It also neutralizes some heavy metal salts and radionuclides. The trace element is involved in the process of hematopoiesis, the formation and development of bone tissue, the formation of teeth, nails, and hair.

Its effect on the human body is enormous, and therefore it is important to maintain sufficient levels of fluoride in the body. For this reason, fluoride-enriched water has gained popularity and is widely used by the population, since fluorine is instantly absorbed from this source, and the process of water fluoridation at all stages of production is controlled, which eliminates increased content element that may be hazardous to health.

Disputes about the benefits and harms of water with fluoride have not subsided for half a century, since fluoridation tap water became widely used in Europe. On the one hand, studies confirm that after the innovation, cases of dental caries in children decreased by almost a third. Public health says this is the most effective prevention caries.

However, on the other hand, the harm of fluoride has also been convincingly proven. Turns out, it affects endocrine system which leads to brain dysfunction. Further research conducted in this area has confirmed that excess fluoride disrupts the functioning of the nervous system and reduces IQ levels.

In connection with these discoveries, the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention, which dealt with this issue, decided to reduce the fluoride content in tap water to 0.7 mg per liter. Health care considers it inappropriate to completely abandon fluoridation, since the benefits of fluoride, in their opinion, cover possible harm, as there was not enough evidence provided to support a number of cases - such as fluoride's connection to osteosarcoma, preterm birth and other conditions.

Types of fluoride

Being a gaseous bioelement with a characteristic odor of ozone and chlorine, fluorine has yellowish color and actively interacts with air, forming a nebula. He is also active substance in hydrofluoric acid - a colorless liquid formed after the interaction of fluorine with hydrogen contained in the air (hydrogen fluoride).

Concentrated hydrogen fluoride literally burns mucous membranes and even the skin. After the action of such a poison, almost all organs are damaged - fluorine is absorbed into the blood through the upper respiratory system.

Some forms of fluorine are based on its crystallization and appear in the form of a white or colorless powder, which is subsequently used for various purposes:

sodium fluoride;
sodium fluoride;
cryolite.

Excess fluoride can lead to dangerous conditions. Food fluoride is not as dangerous as its gas form, which is released when working with fluorine-containing components.

Fluoride can be removed from the body with the help of foods containing microelements such as iodine, boron and selenium.

Fluoride is absorbed by the body in two ways:

Respiratory organs.
Gastrointestinal tract.

When inhaling fluorine gas, an element of the mucous membrane is immediately absorbed in the upper respiratory tract. When consuming foods high in it, absorption occurs through the mucous membrane of the small intestine. Thus entering the blood, the element is almost completely deposited in bone tissue, hair, and nails. And only a small amount continues to circulate in the blood, penetrating the placental barrier, breast milk, slowly metabolized and excreted in the urine.

Sodium fluoride

The most common poisoning is sodium fluoride, which is also toxic substance and can negatively affect the heart and blood vessels, contributes to changes in blood pressure, can lead to stomach upsets and even ulcers. Leads to death at a dosage of 6-8 g per adult weight.

It is the form of fluoride in the form of sodium fluoride that is found in food and water.

Symptoms of sodium fluoride poisoning:

damage to mucous membranes: irritated eyes and upper respiratory tract;
conjunctivitis;
pain and swelling in the nose;
nosebleeds and poorly healing sores in the eyes and mouth;
cough, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases;
malfunction of the circulatory system;
toxic hepatitis, nephropatitis;
increased hemoglobin and red blood cells;
decreased ESR;
liver damage.

And other violations that can lead to dystrophic changes myocardium, pneumosclerosis, contribute to the development of leukopenia and lymphocytosis.

Sodium silicofluoride is the chemical name for the drug better known as rat poison.. Is radical means kills rats and mice and often reaches humans through food. You can also get poisoned by inhaling the powder when its particles, even in small quantities, land on the mucous membrane.

Symptoms of intoxication are typical for poisoning and are characterized by increased fatigue, weakness, depressed state. Symptoms also include:

headache indicates the beginning of general intoxication, where an alarming symptom is the ineffectiveness of painkillers;
nausea and vomiting indicate damage to the digestive organs by the toxin;
due to disruption in circulatory system skin turn pale;
bleeding of various etiologies associated with vascular damage and poor blood clotting. Can be internal and external. Internal ones are especially dangerous and can be fatal.

Depending on the severity of the lesion, more serious signs may appear associated with disorders of the cardiovascular, circulatory, and nervous systems.

Cryolite

Through the respiratory system, irritation of the mucous membrane typical of fluorine occurs and leads to poisoning. Manifestations of fluoride poisoning are always more or less typical and their severity depends on the degree of damage:

conjunctivitis with pharyngitis, laryngitis, bronchitis;
nosebleeds, bleeding gums;
damage to the skin if it has been significantly affected by the gas: in this case, difficult-to-heal ulcers form.

Cryolite poisoning occurs most often in cases where professional interaction occurs with this element, for example, when melting milk glass.

Treatment of poisoning

In case of poisoning with any type of fluoride, it is necessary urgent hospitalization, since delay can pose a threat to life. In order not to waste time, since every second counts, before the ambulance arrives, it is necessary to carry out initial manipulations:

let the patient breathe in a soda solution;
provide peace and warmth;
give drugs based on codeine and dionine, as well as drugs for the heart;
if the skin is affected, you need to rinse it with water as quickly as possible, then treat it with 10% ammonia and thoroughly wash the affected areas again;
apply magnesium ointment.

Acute fluoride poisoning poses a threat to life, but chronic fluoride poisoning is no less dangerous and more insidious, the victims of which can be people who actively use fluoridated water.

Signs of fluoride

Fluoride is a disease that mainly affects children and adolescents, in which there is an oversaturation of bone and cartilage tissue with fluoride, which, against the background of active growth, can lead to dangerous conditions.

The disease begins with a sensitivity disorder of the teeth and gums; jagged and worn teeth, a brownish coating on the enamel, and caries should also cause concern. Later symptoms are characterized by gingivitis and periodontal disease, burning, pain and swelling of the nose. Over time, the nasal septum from persistent ulcers may become thinner and disappear. A child or teenager may complain of frequent nose and gum bleeding. During this period of the disease, bronchospasm begins, disturbance motor functions digestive system. The activity of the kidneys is impaired, which leads to albuminuria and microhematuria.

If the disease is not noticed in time, the disease develops into chronic pneumonia and bronchial asthma.

Later, and sometimes immediately the patient may complain of pain in the heart, cardiac arrhythmia. Symptoms of autonomic-vascular dysfunction appear with vascular disorders and circulatory failure.

We found out that fluoride in large quantities is extremely harmful to the body and in modern conditions it is necessary to carefully monitor the fluoride diet in order to prevent pathological conditions. Take care of yourself and your loved ones.