arsine /ahr′sēn/ , any of several colorless, volatile arsenical bases that are highly toxic and carcinogenic; the most common one is AsH3, arsenous trihydride. Some of these compounds have been used in warfare, and a major industrial use is in the production of microelectronic components, as well as in metal refining. Inhalation leads to massive red blood cell hemolysis with secondary renal failure and jaundice. A garliclike odor may be noted with high concentrations. Initial symptoms include headache, vertigo, and nausea.
