Organomercury poisoning in Iraq: history prior to the 1971-72 outbreak.

Mercury has been used medically in the Middle East since time immemorial. Organomercury compounds were first used as seed dressings in Iraq in 1955. During the years 1955-59, 200 cases of poisoning occurred. A more clearly defined outbreak occurred in 1960, involving approximately 1000 hospital admissions. Twelve patients from two families affected in this outbreak were re-examined in 1973, and showed considerable improvement.