Methylmercury poisoning

Alternative names:

Minamata Bay disease

Treatment:

Methylmercury damage is irreversible. Treatment is determined by the severity of the condition and is similar to that given for cerebral palsy.

Expectations (prognosis):

The symptoms are irreversible; however, they do not usually worsen unless there is a new exposure to methylmercury.

Complications:

Complications depend on the severity of the condition, and the specific symptoms manifested (such as blindness or deafness).

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder are present. If you know about a possibly suspicious exposure (eating foods that may have been contaminated with methylmercury) and you develop symptoms, mention this exposure to your health care provider.