Accidental contact with low mercury concentrations usually requires no treatment, but in some instances it can result in neurological damage and mortality. NICOLA BATES describes the various treatment methods

Mercury is a naturally occurring element that is most familiar in its metallic form as the silver grey liquid, known as quicksilver, in thermometers and sphygmomanometers. Mercury compounds are also used in the chemical, pharmaceutical and photographic industries, and in dentistry in the form of dental amalgam.