Subacetate of Copper (Verdigris).—This preparation is met with in masses, or in the form of a greenish powder. It possesses a powerful astringent metallic taste. It is often produced by allowing substances to stand in coppers. It has proved fatal in half ounce doses.
Arsenite of Copper (Mineral Green).—The effects of this salt have been already referred to.
Symptoms.—Pain in the epigastrium, gradually extending over the abdomen, violent vomiting—the vomited matters being of a blue or green color—and diarrhœa, are the symptoms which set in the most speedily. Then there is usually dyspnœa, great depression, coldness of the extremities, headache with giddiness, and slight tetanic convulsions. Sometimes there is suppression of urine. Jaundice very frequently occurs—a symptom the more important, as it is rarely met with in most other forms of poisoning. Occasionally stupor, coma, and paralysis supervene. Should death ensue, it may occur within a few hours, or not for several days.
The salts of copper taken in very small doses, for several days, give rise to a metallic taste in the mouth, thirst, debility, cramps and colicky pains, with symptoms of dysentery. In some instances there has been found retraction of the gums with the formation of a purple line, very distinct from the blue mark due to lead.
Post-mortem Appearances.—Evidences of inflammation are usually found in the stomach and intestines, the mucous membrane being often ulcerated and of a blue-green color. Particles of the poison may sometimes be found adhering to the coats of the bowel. Perforation of the intestines has occurred.
Treatment.—Vomiting sets in spontaneously, and is to be encouraged by the use of warm water. The stomach pump will rarely be needed. The only effectual antidote is albumen. The whites and yolks of several eggs should therefore be given, followed immediately by milk or mucilaginous drinks.
Tests.—Solutions of the sulphate and nitrate of copper are blue; the chloride is green. The salts of copper may be thus identified:
1. A polished knife or needle introduced into the solution is soon covered with a coating of copper.
2. Ammonia produces with a salt of copper a bluish precipitate, readily soluble in excess of ammonia, and forming a splendid blue solution.
3. Ferrocyanide of potassium gives a claret-colored gelatinous precipitate, if the copper be abundant; otherwise the deposit is of a light brown.