zinc salt poisoning, a toxic condition caused by the ingestion or inhalation of a zinc salt, which can be present in industrial dyes and paints. Symptoms of ingestion include a burning sensation of the mouth and throat, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal and chest pain, and in severe cases shock and coma. Inhalation of zinc salts may cause metal fume fever; skin contact may produce blisters. A poison control center should be contacted if zinc poisoning is suspected.
