Toxicity Summary: Cadmium
The main risks and target organs depend on the form of cadmium and on the route of entry. Inhalation of cadmium-containing fumes or dust.
Acute exposure: effects on the respiratory tract and lungs with bronchitis, pulmonary oedema, interstitial pneumonia.
Chronic exposure: effects on the kidneys and lungs with proteinuria, impairment of lung function.
Ingestion of cadmium salts
Acute exposure: effects on the gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, kidneys, liver, cardiovascular system.
Chronic exposure: effects on the kidneys and bone with proteinuria, renal stones and Itai-itai disease