**********************************************************
The Department of Health (DH) today (October 18) appealed to members of the public not to buy or use a cosmetic cream, RDL Whitening Treatment, as it may contain excessive mercury, which is dangerous to health.
The appeal followed the DH's receipt of notification of a case of mercury poisoning from the Hospital Authority (HA) involving a female patient aged 23. The DH commenced an investigation immediately.
The patient sought medical treatment from the Accident and Emergency Department of Princess Margaret Hospital on August 10 for swelling of the lower limbs. She was found to have kidney disease after admission. She described a history of use of the above product for about two months before admission. Her clinical condition was hence suspected to be related to the use of the above product. She was discharged after treatment on August 16.
The patient subsequently purchased the same product and submitted it to the HA for testing. The HA's laboratory test result today on the product sample showed that the level of mercury was 10.2 times the acceptable level. The patient claimed that she purchased the product from a retail shop in Tsuen Wan but the source is yet to be ascertained. The case has been referred to the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department for follow-up.
"Chronic exposure to mercury can cause damage to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, deterioration of memory, difficulty in concentration, impaired hearing and vision, and change in the ability to taste. In severe cases, renal failure may occur," a spokesman for the DH explained.
"As the level of mercury in the product is 10.2 times the acceptable level, use of the product may cause serious side-effects. People who have used the above product should stop using it immediately and consult health-care professionals as soon as possible if they feel unwell or are in doubt. Members of the public are urged not to buy or use cosmetic products of unknown composition or from doubtful sources," the spokesman said.
Ends/Friday, October 18, 2013
Issued at HKT 18:00
NNNN
