An Overview of Chemical Terrorism Agents

Course Author:
Jerry Thomas, MD
Medical Toxicologist, Division of Laboratory Services, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA

MOC^[?]: MK
Intended Audience: Pathologists, Residents, Doctoral Scientists, Laboratory Managers, Bench Supervisors, Pathologist Assistants, Medical Technologists, Medical Laboratory Technicians

A chemical emergency occurs when a hazardous chemical has been released and has the potential for harming human health. Chemical releases can be unintentional, as in the case of an industrial accident, or intentional, as in the case of a terrorist attack.

Some chemicals have been developed by military organizations for use in warfare. Examples are nerve agents such as sarin and VX, vesicants such as sulfur mustards and nitrogen mustards, and choking agents such as phosgene.

Many hazardous chemicals are used in industry (for example, chlorine, ammonia, and benzene). These types of hazardous chemicals also could be obtained and used to harm people, or they could be accidentally released.

In a public health response to a chemical release, one important aim will be to identify the causative agent. Understanding the toxicity and effects of chemical agents will aid in recognition, response and recovery. Biological fluid assays developed by the CDC and state laboratories will support chemical identification and medical response. This overview will introduce the student to the history, classification, and toxic effects of some agents of concern.

The ASCP designates these educational activities for a maximum of 2 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activities.

These activities meet MOC Part II Lifelong Learning requirements. These activities meet MOC Part II Self-Assessment Module requirements.

ASCP designates these activities for a maximum of 2 CMLE credits. These activities meet CMP and state licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.

Disclaimer:
Although accurate at the time of publication, the information in this continuing education activity is not legally binding. Changes to regulations and additional regulatory measures may be imposed subsequent to this the publication of this course. The appearance of products or product names in this presentation does not constitute an endorsement by CDC, HHS, or any other entity of the federal government.

The goal of the cooperative agreement is to assess the baseline level of knowledge among clinical laboratory professionals related to this topic, identify gaps in the knowledge, provide education to fill in the gaps, and assess the effectiveness of the educational intervention. To support the goal of the cooperative agreement, participants will be expected to complete a pre-test, a post-test immediately following the course, and another post test at a later date to ascertain the change in knowledge resulting from participation in this educational experience. Information regarding the second post test will be sent via e-mail at a later date. All test results will remain strictly confidential. CME/CMLE credit will be issued to participants who complete the pre-test, a course evaluation, and the post test with the expectation that learners will complete the second post test to support the goal of the cooperative agreement.

This educational activity is supported by a cooperative agreement awarded to the American Society for Clinical Pathology by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).