Nickel carbonyl: toxicity and human health.

Because of its volatility and other unique properties, nickel tetracarbonyl has specialized industrial uses. It is an extremely toxic substance and induces systemic poisoning, with the lungs and brain being especially susceptible targets. The clinical symptoms and management of patients accidentally exposed are reviewed in considerable detail. Although there is some suggestion that nickel tetracarbonyl is a carcinogen in animals, the available epidemiologic data do not support such a link in humans. Continual monitoring and long-term follow-up of exposed workers is recommended.