Arsenic causes all, except: WB 09
**Core Concept**
Arsenic is a toxic metalloid that can cause a range of systemic effects due to its ability to bind to thiol groups in proteins and inhibit various enzymes. It can cause damage to multiple organ systems, including the skin, liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Arsenic exposure can lead to the development of skin lesions, including hyperpigmentation and hyperkeratosis, due to its ability to bind to keratin and inhibit keratinocyte proliferation. It can also cause liver damage by inhibiting glutathione S-transferase and increasing lipid peroxidation. Additionally, arsenic exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension and atherosclerosis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Arsenic is known to cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, due to its ability to inhibit the absorption of nutrients and cause damage to the intestinal lining. This option is therefore correct.
**Option B:** Arsenic exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, including skin, lung, and bladder cancer, due to its ability to cause genetic mutations and epigenetic changes. This option is therefore correct.
**Option C:** Arsenic is not typically associated with the development of neurological symptoms, such as tremors and seizures, which are more commonly seen with exposure to heavy metals like lead and mercury. This option is incorrect.
**Option D:** Arsenic exposure has been linked to an increased risk of reproductive problems, including infertility and birth defects, due to its ability to cause oxidative stress and damage to sperm and egg cells. This option is therefore correct.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Arsenic poisoning can be treated with chelation therapy using agents like dimercaprol and succimer, which can help to remove arsenic from the body by binding to it and increasing its excretion.
**Correct Answer:** C.