Bismuth [Bi, 83]

Bismuth is a metal of the group 15 in the periodic table of elements and reveals both lithophilic and chalcophilic properties. Its contents on the Earth’s upper crust range from 0.06 to 0.17 mg/kg. In some soils derived from rocks of increased Bismuth contents, its levels may be higher. In ferralitic soils, it may be concentrated up to 10 mg/kg. Bismuth and its salts can cause kidney damage, although the degree of such damage is usually mild. Large doses can be fatal. Compounds containing Bismuth are, therefore, widely used in medical applications. Bismuth-containing pharmaceuticals, partially in synergy with antibiotics, are already used or are being considered in the treatment of infections caused by certain bacteria, especially to eradicate Helicobacter pylori, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and others. Microbial methylation of Bismuth by the human gut microbiota resulting in more mobile and presumably more harmful derivatives has recently been reported.