Lead poisoning

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Lead poisoning
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, constipation, headache, irritability, memory problems, infertility
Complications	Anemia, neuropathy, kidney damage, encephalopathy
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Lead exposure
Risks	Occupational exposure, living in older homes, children
Diagnosis	Blood lead level test
Differential diagnosis	Iron deficiency anemia, zinc deficiency, porphyria
Prevention	Lead abatement, occupational safety
Treatment	Chelation therapy, supportive care
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depending on exposure and treatment
Frequency	Common in developing countries
Deaths	N/A

Lead poisoning is a medical condition caused by increased levels of the heavy metal lead in the body. Lead interferes with a variety of body processes and is toxic to many organs and tissues, including the heart, bones, intestines, kidneys, and reproductive system, but primarily affects the nervous system, particularly in children.

Symptoms of lead poisoning (vector)

Etiology and Pathophysiology

Lead can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption, most commonly from lead-based paint, contaminated water, and lead dust. Once in the body, lead can displace calcium, interfere with the formation of red blood cells, and disrupt the functioning of the nervous system.

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Clinical Presentation

Prevent childhood lead poisoning - DPLA - 049d88d544c58f621aa28f6900911810

Symptoms of lead poisoning are diverse and may vary depending on the individual and the duration and intensity of exposure. In children, the symptoms often include abdominal pain, decreased appetite, irritability, constipation, fatigue, and learning difficulties. In adults, additional symptoms may include high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, difficulties with memory or concentration, headache, abdominal pain, mood disorders, and, in some cases, reduced sperm count or abnormal menstruation.

Diagnosis

Lead poisoning is diagnosed through a blood test that measures the level of lead in the blood. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a blood lead level of 5 micrograms per deciliter or more in children or 10 micrograms per deciliter or more in adults is considered elevated and requires treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for lead poisoning consists of removing the source of lead, providing nutritious meals rich in calcium and iron to help reduce the absorption of lead, and in severe cases, using chelation therapy or EDTA therapy to remove the lead from the body.

Prevention

Prevention of lead poisoning can be achieved through various measures, including reducing environmental lead sources, increasing public awareness about the dangers of lead exposure, regular screening for lead in at-risk individuals, and implementing protective occupational safety regulations for those working with lead.

See Also

• Heavy metal poisoning
• Chelation therapy

References

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