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 lithium in humans. Lithium is widely distributed, principally in aluminum silicates. The ore (or spring salt) is converted to pure lithium chloride, which is electrolyzed to the metal. Lithium and compounds are used in the grease and ceramics industries, in metallurgy, air conditioning, and the chemical industry. Lithium carbonate is used therapeutically as an antidepressant. Lithium forms a wide variety of univalent compounds. Lithium hydride and LiAlH4 decompose in water; most other common compounds are highly water soluble. Lithium is readily absorbed from the gastroinestinal tract. The effects of lithium in humans include information on acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, biochemistry, specific organs and systems, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Lithium has been found teratogenic in the rat and mouse.
