Toxicokinetic aspects of thallium poisoning. Methods of treatment by toxin elimination.

The elimination techniques which are used in the treatment of thallium poisoning are evaluated in toxicokinetic perspective. Prussian Blue therapy and forced diuresis are effective in the treatment of acute as well as subacute thallium intoxications. Both elimination techniques can be applied without danger from neurological side effects. Generally, the combined use of these techniques is recommended. Since obstipation as well as renal impairment are common in thallium poisoning, extracorporal elimination techniques are of additional importance. In particular, charcoal haemoperfusion has proven to be successful in the elimination of thallium from the body, especially in the early phase of the intoxication.