What is a common effect of exposure to blister agents?

Exposure to blister agents results in the general destruction of tissues, making this the correct answer. Blister agents, often termed chemical agents, inflict damage primarily to the skin and mucous membranes. When an individual comes into contact with such agents, the chemical compounds penetrate the skin or are inhaled, leading to the formation of painful blisters and severe tissue damage.

These agents are designed to cause significant injury and can affect various organs depending on the route of exposure. The destructive nature of these agents is a key characteristic, differentiating them from other types of chemicals that may result in respiratory failure or disrupt nerve impulses. Instead of targeting the nervous system or being primarily lethal through respiratory failure, blister agents cause localized tissue destruction, often resulting in extensive wounds and secondary infections.

While other options may represent effects associated with different types of chemical agents, the hallmark effect of blister agents remains the widespread and severe damage to tissues, supporting the underlying rationale for selecting this answer.