Commentary on: a review on delayed toxic effects of sulfur mustard in Iranian veterans

SM can be absorbed following inhalation [10] and dermal [10,11] exposure from air and soil. [...]although SM is a very reactive substance which hydrolyzing rapidly on contact with water, it may persist in the environment for many years, even decades, longer than expected [12]. Considering all the above facts, the correct assessment of the amount of agent in the air, in nearby water, on equipment, and on the ground (substrates such as soil, grass, concrete and asphalt) is critical to making correct decisions about the need for decontamination. [...]testing methods that detect both the SM and its degradation products, some of which may be toxic, since the war zones in our country now are major tourist areas where every year a large number of people travel there, are essential.