Antimony hair levels reflect past or chronic skin exposure, inhalation or ingestion of this element. Hair is a preferred tissue for analysis of antimony exposure and body burden.
- Antimony is a nonessential element considered by some to be more toxic than arsenic, but others say it is less toxic.
- Like arsenic, Antimony has a high affinity for sulfhydryl groups on many enzymes.
- Antimony is conjugated with glutathione and excreted in urine and feces. Therefore, excessive exposure to antimony has the potential to deplete intracellular glutathione pools.
- Antimony’s deposition in body tissues and its detrimental effects depend upon the oxidation state of the element.
- Antimony affects liver functions, impairs enzymes, and may interfere with sulfur chemistry.
- If antimony impairs phosphofructokinase (PFK), then purine metabolism may be disrupted, resulting in elevated blood and/or urine levels of hypoxanthine, uric acid and possibly ammonia.
- Antimony deposits in bone, kidney, and in organs of the endocrine system.
- “Antimony spots” may result from skin contact with antimony salts and vapors.
- Trans-dermal absorption can also lead to “antimony spots” which resemble chicken pox.
- Respiratory tissue irritation may result from inhalation of antimony particles or dust.
A confirmatory test for recent or current exposure is the measurement of Antimony in the urine.
Antimony
Every lab result you’ve ever had, charted and explained.
Healthmatters is a tracker for your lab results. Upload a report from any lab, any country — every marker charted and explained.
Start with my report →
All our content is backed by peer-reviewed studies, academic research, and trusted medical sources. We’re committed to accuracy and transparency — see our editorial policy for details.