Lead Poisoning

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lead poisoning often begins with a routine blood test recommended during well-child checkups, typically at ages 1 and 2. Older children who have never been tested or may be at risk can also be screened.

A small blood sample is taken either from a finger prick or from a vein. The result is measured in micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). There is no safe blood lead level for children. A reading of 5 mcg/dL indicates a potentially unsafe level and requires ongoing monitoring with repeated testing. A level of 45 mcg/dL or higher is considered high and usually requires medical treatment.

Treatment

The primary goal of treatment is to remove or reduce exposure to the source of lead. If complete removal of lead from the environment is not possible, steps can be taken to make exposure less harmful. In some cases, sealing old lead paint may be safer than attempting to remove it. Local health departments can provide guidance on identifying and reducing lead hazards at home and in the community.

For children or adults with low blood lead levels, avoiding further exposure may be enough to bring levels down naturally.

Treating high blood lead levels

When blood lead levels are high, treatment options may include:

• Chelation therapy, where an oral medicine binds to lead so it can be passed out of the body through urine. This is typically recommended for children with levels of 45 mcg/dL or higher, or adults with elevated levels or symptoms.

• EDTA chelation therapy, used for adults with levels above 45 mcg/dL and for children unable to take standard chelation medication. This treatment uses calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and is given by injection.