Cobalt toxicity
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
Clinical presentation is variable. Continuous skin contact with cobalt may cause irritation or a rash (see allergic contact dermatitis). Acute ingestion of large amounts of cobalt is rare and not known to cause any severe manifestations; patients may commonly present with nausea and vomiting. Chronic absorption of large amounts of cobalt may lead to serious health complications. Potential clinical manifestations include fatigue, cardiomyopathy, cognitive dysfunction, hearing loss, hypothyroidism, neuropathy, polycythemia, tinnitus, and vision loss.
Individuals acutely exposed to large amounts of cobalt usually recover without any long-term complications. However, individuals who experience cobalt toxicity from long-term exposure may have irreversible health problems.
Codes
ICD10CM:T56.891A – Toxic effect of other metals, accidental (unintentional), initial encounter
SNOMEDCT:
111777006 – Cobalt poisoning
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Aluminum toxicity
- Arsenic toxicity
- Copper toxicity
- Mercury toxicity
- Manganese toxicity
- Thallium toxicity
- Hypothyroidism
- Addison disease
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Last Reviewed:09/29/2021
Last Updated:10/05/2021
Last Updated:10/05/2021