Arsenic & arsenic containing compounds are human carcinogens. Exposure to arsenic occurs occupationally in several industries, including mining, pesticide, pharmaceutical, glass & microelectronics, as well as environmentally from industrial & natural sources. Inhalation is the principal route of arsenic exposure in occupational settings, while ingestion of contaminated drinking water is the predominant source of significant environmental exposure globally. There are many adverse health effects associated with arsenic exposure. Although several epidemiological studies have documented the sources of exposures & global impact of contamination, the mechanisms by which arsenic induces health effects are not well characterised. This review looks at the underlying pathology & nature of arsenic-induced lesions.
