<P> Some mercury compounds, especially organomercury compounds, can also be readily absorbed through direct skin contact . Mercury and its compounds are commonly used in chemical laboratories, hospitals, dental clinics, and facilities involved in the production of items such as fluorescent light bulbs, batteries, and explosives . </P> <P> Many traditional medicines, including Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese medicine contain mercury and other heavy metals . </P> <P> No scientific data support the claim that mercury compounds in vaccine preservatives cause autism or its symptoms . </P> <P> Compounds of mercury tend to be much more toxic than either the elemental form or the salts . These compounds have been implicated in causing brain and liver damage . The most dangerous mercury compound, dimethylmercury, is so toxic that even a few microliters spilled on the skin, or even on a latex glove, can cause death . </P>

How long does it take to show symptoms of mercury poisoning