Lead Poisoning

Abstract

Lead poisoning is the most common cause of chronic metal poisoning. It constitutes an important environmental health problem, especially in developing countries. In the early phase of lead poisoning, symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, headache, abdominal pain, and constipation are observed non-specifically. In severe poisoning, many symptoms are observed, affecting many systems and requiring hospitalization. In children, acute lead encephalopathy is characterized by abnormal behavior, growth retardation, ataxia, vomiting, seizures, and sometimes cerebral edema, resulting in increased intracranial pressure, coma, and death. Adults with high blood lead concentrations also have similar neurological signs such as encephalopathy, confusion, headaches, seizures, and blindness. Measurement of the blood lead level is the best indicator in diagnosing lead poisoning. The medical treatment of patients with high blood lead levels consists of decontamination, supportive care, and chelation therapy.