Agents of chemical warfare: sulfur mustard

Abstract

Sulfur mustard is a chemical warfare agent of historical and current interest. Favored militarily because of its ability to incapacitate rather than its ability to kill, its use results in large numbers of casualties requiring prolonged, intensive care. In light of recent threats of chemical warfare and the possibilities of chemical acts of terrorism, North American physicians should be knowledgeable of its effects and the care of its victims.