Kacew and Lu (2013) included three chapters in their book, Lu's Basic Toxicology, that discuss toxicology of the eye, skin, and kidney. After reading the chapters, three premises became clear. First, the anatomy of the eye is well understood and the effects of toxicants are capable of diagnosis. Toxicity of the eye can be caused by chemical, drugs, or diseases. Healing may be prolonged and scarring may result. Of particular interest is the concept of developing a toxicity index for drugs, as the reactions of the anatomy of the eye is not well documented for all medications and chemicals. This would assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of toxicity of the eye.
Second, skin contact with chemicals results in a number of different lesions that indicate the source of the irritating toxin. Medications, allergic reactions to toxins in the environment, exposure to radiation, and diseases may all result in skin irritation in varying degrees. When toxins result in skin cancers, it is critical for immediate diagnosis and treatment in order to prevent invasive carcinoma. Cutaneous squamous cancer has a small mortality rate, but still has the ability to metastasize. For this reason, research and information on hyperkeratotic lesions and squamous cell carcinomas in situ must be recognized and treated immediately.
Third, as the principal organ for excreting toxins, the kidneys may suffer from the process. Renal toxicity has the potential of negatively impacting all the functions of the body. Renal failure as a result of drugs is common from drugs and chemicals and it is vital to recognize toxicity as soon as possible. Damage to the kidney from toxins may be irreversible and result in the need for transplant or dialysis to prevent lifelong disability or even death.
My chosen career is presently in the area of safety in oil fields. Toxins present in the drilling for oil has wide impact on pathology of the skin, eyes, and kidneys.
References
Kacew, S., and Lu, F. (2013). Lu's Basic Toxicology. London: CRC Press.
