What health effect can occur due to arsine exposure?

Arsine is a highly toxic gas that is particularly harmful to the hematologic (blood) system. When a person is exposed to arsine, it can lead to the destruction of red blood cells in a condition known as hemolysis. This massive destruction of red blood cells can result in hemolytic anemia, characterized by fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, and increased levels of bilirubin in the blood. The mechanism of action involves the formation of reactive intermediates that damage the cell membranes of red blood cells, leading to their premature destruction.

This understanding of arsine's effects highlights the importance of monitoring and controlling exposure to this compound in industrial settings to protect workers’ health. Other effects associated with arsenic or different toxic agents do not directly align with the specific and well-documented risk of red blood cell destruction that arsine poses.