Plumbism

Plumbism or Lead poisoning is a type of metal poisoning caused by the presence of lead in the body. The brain is the most sensitive organ to lead exposure. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, constipation, headaches, irritability, memory problems, inability to have children, and tingling in the hands and feet. It causes almost 10% of intellectual disability of otherwise unknown cause and can result in behavioral problems. Some of the effects are permanent. In severe cases anemia, seizures, coma, or death may occur.

Causes

Exposure to lead can occur by contaminated air, water, dust, food, or consumer products. Children are at greater risk as they are more likely to put objects in their mouth such as those that are contaminated by lead paint and it is more easily absorbed into the body. Exposure at work is a common cause of lead poisoning in adults with certain occupations at particular risk. Diagnosis is typically by measurement of the blood lead level. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has set the upper limit for blood lead for adults at 10 µg/dl (10 µg/100 g) and for children at 5 µg/dl.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention includes removing lead-containing items from the environment, improving nutrition, and education. Treatment for lead poisoning includes the use of chelation therapy and removal of the source of lead. Historically, lead poisoning has been a significant issue since the ancient Romans, an issue that continues into the present day.

See Also

• Lead
• Metal Poisoning
• Chelation Therapy

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