EN
We have reviewed available data from our and other laboratories relevant to the effects of single and repeated intoxication with mercury on the metabolism of several elements in animal bodies. Additionally, emphasis has been placed on the influence of zinc and selenium on mercury toxicity. The data indicate that mercuric chloride and methyl mercury affect quite differently the distribution pattern and concentrations of trace elements in animal organs. Moreover, it should be stressed that mercury intoxication decreases bone radiocalcium and thyroidal radioiodine levels which correlated with the size of mercury doses. The disturbances were chiefly attributed to impairments of the gastrointestinal absorption in mercury intoxicated rats. Moreover, haemodynamic alterations and mercury trace ele- ments-metallothionein complexes may also result in these disturbances. The effect of zinc on mercury toxicity is not uniquivocal. In contrast, the ability of selenium to decrease mercury's deleterious effect in animals is well recognised.