Fluorine Poisoning

  • F is widespread in nature
  • Pastures may be contaminated by industrial processes (e.g. brick manufacture)
  • Acute poisoning:
    • Gastroenteritis
    • Nephrosis
  • Chronic poisoning:
    • Dental abnormalities
      • Intoxication during teeth development
      • Foci of poor enamel formation - yellow, dark brown/black, chalky
      • Irregular wear of teeth, chip easily
    • Osteodystrophy = Fluorosis
      • Generalised skeletal disturbance
      • Most affected are metatarsals and mandibles
      • Periosteal hyperostosis + endosteal bone resorption -> thickened bones with enlarged marrow cavities