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Lead poisoning is the presence of an elevated level of lead in the blood. It is estimated that about 2 percent of children younger than 6 years in the United States have elevated blood lead levels. Lead enters the blood and other organs primarily through the lungs (from breathing contaminated air) and the digestive tract (from eating contaminated substances). Lead can have damaging effects on any organ in the body, but it is particularly damaging to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and red blood cells (cells that carry oxygen in the blood). Lead is toxic to both adults and children. It is particularly dangerous for children younger than 6 years because they are still growing and their nervous system is still developing. Even a slightly increased blood lead level may have toxic effects, so it is important to see your doctor immediately if you believe you or your family to be at risk. The May 11, 2005, issue of JAMA includes an article that reports rates of follow up testing for children with high blood lead levels in the state of Michigan.
Sources of Lead Exposure
· Paint dust and paint chips from lead-based paint (used most commonly in houses built before 1978
· Contaminated soil
· Water that has passed through lead pipes
· Food that has been stored in lead-glazed earthenware
· Certain toys and jewelry
· Some preparations of traditional remedies
Symptoms
· Fatigue
· Stomach pains
· Headaches
· Changes in personality or worsening of school performance
· Pain in hands, feet, muscles or joints
In many cases, there are no symptoms.
Diagnosis
Evaluation begins with a complete medical history and physical examination, including a thorough neurological examination. Further testing would usually include a blood test to measure the blood lead level and a red blood cell count to check for anemia (low red blood cell count).
Treatment
Appropriate treatment depends on the blood lead level and differs for children and adults. If the level is only slightly elevated, your doctor may advise measures to reduce lead exposure and to have the blood lead level retested. In other cases, immediate medical treatment may be required. Medical treatment primarily consists of chelating agents, medications that specifically bind to lead and assist in its removal from the body. These agents can be administered by mouth or intravenously (through a needle inserted into a vein).