LEAD BLOOD TEST
OVERVIEW
Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or
years. Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health problems. Children
younger than 6 years are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can
severely affect mental and physical development. At very high levels, lead
poisoning can be fatal.
Lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust in older buildings are common
sources of lead poisoning in children. Other sources include contaminated air,
water and soil. Adults who work with batteries, do home renovations or work in
auto repair shops also might be exposed to lead.
SYMPTOMS
In Children:
Developmental delay, Learning difficulties, Irritability, Loss of appetite, Weight loss,
Sluggishness and fatigue, Abdominal pain, Vomiting, Constipation and Hearing loss.
In Newborn:
Be born prematurely, Have lower birth weight and Having slowed growth.
In Adults:
High blood pressure, Joint and muscle pain, Difficulties with memory or
concentration, Headache, Abdominal pain, Mood disorders, Reduced sperm count
and abnormal sperm, Miscarriage and stillbirth or premature birth in pregnant
women.
DIAGNOSIS
The children must be tested for lead levels during routine check-ups.
Generally, this testing happens at ages 1 and 2. Lead screening also might
be recommended for older children who haven't been tested.
A simple blood test can detect lead poisoning. A small blood sample is
taken from a finger (Capillary) or from a vein.
A child whose levels become too high — generally 45 mcg/dL or higher
should be treated.
TRETMENT
High levels:
-Chelation therapy: a medication given by mouth.
-(EDTA) chelation therapy: given by injection.
OVERVIEW
Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or
years. Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health problems. Children
younger than 6 years are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can
severely affect mental and physical development. At very high levels, lead
poisoning can be fatal.
Lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust in older buildings are common
sources of lead poisoning in children. Other sources include contaminated air,
water and soil. Adults who work with batteries, do home renovations or work in
auto repair shops also might be exposed to lead.
SYMPTOMS
In Children:
Developmental delay, Learning difficulties, Irritability, Loss of appetite, Weight loss,
Sluggishness and fatigue, Abdominal pain, Vomiting, Constipation and Hearing loss.
In Newborn:
Be born prematurely, Have lower birth weight and Having slowed growth.
In Adults:
High blood pressure, Joint and muscle pain, Difficulties with memory or
concentration, Headache, Abdominal pain, Mood disorders, Reduced sperm count
and abnormal sperm, Miscarriage and stillbirth or premature birth in pregnant
women.
DIAGNOSIS
The children must be tested for lead levels during routine check-ups.
Generally, this testing happens at ages 1 and 2. Lead screening also might
be recommended for older children who haven't been tested.
A simple blood test can detect lead poisoning. A small blood sample is
taken from a finger (Capillary) or from a vein.
A child whose levels become too high — generally 45 mcg/dL or higher
should be treated.
TRETMENT
High levels:
-Chelation therapy: a medication given by mouth.
-(EDTA) chelation therapy: given by injection.
