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, and exposure results in irritation, lacrimation, and involuntary blinking (blepharospasm). Agents also produce violent coughing, sneezing, and regurgitation. 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 systemic agents and readily pass through the skin to affect susceptible tissues including blood cells and the liver. Some arsenic vesicants are carcinogenic.
