ABSTRACT
Vesicants affect both exterior and interior parts of the body. They cause inflammation, blisters, and general destruction of tissues. Vapors have a greater impact on moist areas of the body. Eyes are especially susceptible to vesicants. Inhalation of vesicants can cause lung membranes to swell and become filled with liquid (pulmonary edema). Death may result from lack of oxygen. Vesicants are also systemic agents and readily pass through the skin to affect susceptible tissues including those that produce blood. For this reason, they are often described as radiomimetic poisons. In severe cases, systemic effects can include cardiovascular shock and multiple organ failure. Agents are carcinogenic.
