Phosphorus toxicity causes jaw necrosis
A feared side effect of the new osteoporosis drugs is necrosis of the jaw - when I asked my MD about this, I was told - it’s extremely rare and we don’t really know the cause. Well, listen to this, which has been known since 1926:
“The most striking result of phosphorus poisoning is a necrosis of the jaw bone called “phossy jaw.” Suppurative ulceration of the gums around carious teeth occurs and finally large fistulae discharging pus may develop at both sides of the neck.” Apparently this was known about for many years as in 1926 an agreement was reached to discontinue use of yellow phosphorus in the fireworks industry, where the poisoning was occuring.
This information was documented in a book called:
“Properties and chemistry of Phosphorus and its compounds”, reprinted from the Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Vol. X, pp 403-510, copyright 1953.
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I'll be writing brief newsbits on discoveries, trends, nutrition guidance in the field of health and wellness, along with the occassional political interlude, particularly in relation to environmental protection and historic preservation, as the spirit strikes me. Links and contacts will get you to more information, websites I've found useful and groups or organizations I care about. Thanks for stopping and Enjoy!
