Potentially toxic elements, pollution and hair

Abstract

Heavy metals (HMs) are potentially toxic elements (PTEs) considered to be among the most dangerous and damaging polluting substances. However, at the trace level, many of these may be necessary to living systems. Exposure to PTEs is a well-known problem in industrialized countries. In the assessmernt of the toxicity of a particular metal it is crucial to consider parameters such as chemical form, binding capability, presence of specific proteins, etc. Medical treatment of acute and chronic metal toxicity can often be performed by chelating agents. The present review aims at providing updated information on the effects of PTEs and on the role of hair analysis to monitor the health status of an individual.