ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a detailed discussion on the occurrence and production, uses, chemical and physical properties, exposure and exposure limits, toxicokinetics, and effects of cadmium in humans. Cadmium is found as greenockite, but it is produced commercially as a by-product of production of other metals (zinc, lead, and copper) from sulfide ores. The major use of cadmium is electroplating metals to inhibit corrosion. Some compounds are used in pigments, primarily for plastics, and as plastic heat stabilizers. Absorbed cadmium is concentrated in the liver and kidneys, apparently in association with metallothionein, a cadmium-binding protein. The effects of cadmium in humans include information on acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, biochemistry, specific organs and systems, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Cadmium induces changes in several gluconeogenic enzymes. It reduces serum antitrypsin concentration and depresses the trypsin inhibitor capacity.
