Lead toxicity

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(Redirected from Lead poisoning)

Background

Pathophysiology

  • Lead has multisystem effects, and is a powerful neurotoxin

Risk Factors

  • Occupational exposure to lead:
    • Battery manufacturing
    • Plumbing
    • Mining
    • Painting
    • Paper hanging
    • Auto repair

Clinical Manifestations

Investigations

  • Labs:

Diagnosis

  • Blood lead level strongly correlates with exposure level and health effects
    • Shows acute exposures (i.e. within months)
  • Since lead deposits in the bones, can do X-ray defraction for cumulative lead exposure