Table 3.

Scope of methylmercury poisoning experienced in Japan beginning in the 1950s. This syndrome became known as Minamata Disease. Later, when the effects of prenatal exposure became evident, a new category, Fetal Minamata Disease, was established.

SENSORY
(i) Paresthesia (numbness and tingling)
(ii) Pain in limbs
(iii) Visual disturbances (field constriction)
(iv) Hearing disturbances
(v) Asterognosis (discrimination by touch)
MOTOR
(i) Disturbances of gait
(ii) Weakness, leg unsteadiness, falling
(iii) Thick, slurred speed (dysarthria)
(iv) Tremor
OTHER
Headaches, rashes, “mental disturbance”