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