dimethylmercury


di·meth·yl·mer·cu·ry

(dī-meth'il-mĕr'kyū-rē), A contaminant of seafood products synthesized in sediments from mercury and mercury-containing chemicals dumped in waters supporting marine life. Methylmercury is concentrated in aquatic life forms and can thus be deposited in fish intended for human consumption. Probable cause of Minamata disease, a teratogenic condition characterized by multiple birth defects in Japan. An inorganic reagent.
See also: Minamata disease. Synonym(s): methylmercury

dimethylmercury

(di-meth-il-mer'ku-re) An exceptionally toxic form of mercury that may cause disease and death even after minute exposures. It is readily absorbed through the skin and respiratory tract. See: mercury poisoning