Lead poisoning Classification and external resources
ICD-10	T56.0
ICD-9	984.9

Lead poisoning (also known as saturnism, plumbism, or painter's colic) is a medical condition caused by increased levels of the metal lead in the blood. The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (most commonly known by the abbreviation ICD) provides codes to classify Diseases The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision ( ICD -10) is a coding of diseases and signs symptoms abnormal findings S00-T14 - Injury (S00-S09 Head ( Superficial Injury of head ( Superficial injury of The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (most commonly known by the abbreviation ICD) provides codes to classify Diseases The following is a list of codes for International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Toxicology (from the Greek words toxicos and logos) is the study of the adverse effects of Chemicals on living organisms Forensic toxicology is the use of Toxicology and other disciplines such as Analytical chemistry, Pharmacology and Clinical chemistry to aid medicolegal Toxinology is the specialized area of Toxicology that deals specifically with animal plant and microbial toxins but is also considered a science in its own right The history of Poison stretches from before 4500 BC to the Present day. S00-T14 - Injury (S00-S09 Head ( Superficial Injury of head ( Superficial injury of 17 Injury and poisoning (800-999 fracture of skull (800-804 ( Fracture of Vault of skull ( Fracture of Base of skull In the context of Biology, poisons are substances that can cause damage, Illness, or Death to Organisms usually by This article is about the class of Biotoxins For other uses see Venom (disambiguation and Venomous (disambiguation. A toxicant is a chemical compound that has an effect on organisms An antidote or counterdose is a substance which can counteract a form of Poisoning. Acceptable daily intake or ADI is a measure of the amount of a specific substance (usually a Food additive, or a residue of a veterinary drug or pesticide in Acute toxicity describes the adverse effects of a substance which result either from a single exposure or from multiple exposures in a short space of time (usually less than 24 hours Bioaccumulation occurs when an organism absorbs a toxic substance at a rate greater than that at ftudruinsubstance is lost Biomagnification, also known as bioamplification, or biological magnification is the increase in concentration of a substance such as the Pesticide Fixed Dose Procedure (FDP proposed in 1984 is a method to assess a substance's acute oral Toxicity. In Toxicology, the median lethal dose, LD50 (abbreviation for “Lethal Dose 50%” or LCt50 (Lethal Concentration & Time of a A lethal dose (LD is an indication of the Lethality of a given substance or type of Radiation. Toxic capacity can mean the Toxicity of a substance possibly in relation to a specific Organism and toxic capacity can mean the capacity of an organism Toxicity Class refers to a classification system for Pesticides created by a national or international government-related or -sponsored organization A toxin ( Greek:, toxikon, lit (poison for use on arrows is a Poisonous substance produced by living cells or organisms that is active at very low This article is about the class of Biotoxins For other uses see Venom (disambiguation and Venomous (disambiguation. A neurotoxin is a Toxin that acts specifically on nerve cells ( Neurons, usually by interacting with Membrane proteins such as Ion channels Necrosis (in Greek Νεκρός = "dead" is the name given to unnatural Death of cells and living tissue. Hemotoxins, haemotoxins or hematotoxins are Toxins that destroy Red blood cells (that is cause Hemolysis) disrupt Blood Mycotoxin (from the Greek μύκης (mykes mukos "fungus" is a Toxin produced by an organism of the Fungus kingdom which includes Mushrooms Aflatoxins are naturally occurring Mycotoxins that are produced by many species of Aspergillus, a Fungus, most notably Aspergillus Phototoxins are Toxins that can cause allergic reactions in particularly susceptible individuals and which can cause dangerous Photosensitivity in a much broader range This is a list of toxins poisons and chemical weapons from works of fiction (usually in Fantasy and Science fiction) The Bradford sweets poisoning was the accidental Arsenic poisoning of more than 200 people in Bradford, England in 1858 an estimated 20 people died when sometimes referred to as, is a neurological syndrome caused by severe Mercury poisoning. is a Neurological syndrome caused by severe Mercury poisoning. Alexander Litvinenko was a former officer of Russian Federal Security Service, who escaped prosecution in Russia and received a Political asylum in The Bhopal disaster was an Industrial disaster that occurred in the city of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India, resulting in the immediate deaths The 2007 pet food recalls comprise the contamination and wide recall of many brands of cat and dog foods beginning in March 2007 and the ensuing developments This is a list of Poisonings in chronological order of victim Toxic metals are Metals that form Poisonous soluble compounds and have no biological role i Mercury poisoning (also known as mercurialism, hydrargyria, Hunter-Russell syndrome, or acrodynia when affecting children is a Disease Cadmium has no constructive purpose in the Human body It and its compounds are extremely Toxic even in low concentrations and will Bioaccumulate in Antimony (IPA (Received Pronunciation, /ˈæntɪmoʊni/ (US is a Chemical element with the symbol Sb (stibium meaning "mark" and Arsenic Poisoning kills by Allosteric inhibition of essential metabolic Enzymes, leading to death from multi-system Beryllium (bəˈrɪliəm is a Chemical element with the symbol Be and Atomic number 4 Iron poisoning is caused by a large excess of Iron intake It has been primarily been associated with young children who consumed large quantities of iron supplement pills Thallium (ˈθæliəm is a Chemical element with the symbol Tl and Atomic number 81 In high concentrations soluble Fluoride Salts are somewhat Toxic. Oxygen toxicity or oxygen toxicity syndrome (also known as the " Paul Bert effect" or the "Lorrain Smith effect" describes harmful effects caused There are four syndromes called shellfish poisoning, which share some common features and are primarily associated with bivalve molluscs (such as Mussels Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP is one of the four recognized syndromes of Shellfish poisoning (the others being Neurotoxic shellfish poisoning, diarrhetic Diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP is one of the four recognised symptom types of Shellfish poisoning, the others being Paralytic shellfish poisoning, Neurotoxic Amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP is a human illness caused by consumption of the marine biotoxin called Domoic acid. Ciguatera is a Foodborne illness poisoning in humans caused by eating Marine species whose flesh is contaminated with a toxin known as Ciguatoxin, Scombroid food poisoning is a foodborne Illness that results from eating spoiled (decayed Fish. Tetrodotoxin (anhydrotetrodotoxin 4-epitetrodotoxin tetrodonic acid TTX is a potent Neurotoxin with no known antidote which blocks Action potentials in Nerves Pesticide Poisonings occur when chemicals intended to control a pest affect non-target organisms such as Humans Wildlife, or Bees Since Many Organophosphates are potent Neurotoxins functioning by inhibiting the action of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE in nerve cells. Foodborne illness (also foodborne disease) is any Illness resulting from the consumption of food Historically most cases of nicotine poisoning have been the result of its use as an Insecticide; however such use is less frequent now than previously Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs after the inhalation of Carbon monoxide gas Vitamin poisoning, or hypervitaminosis, refers to a condition of high storage levels of Vitamins which can lead to Toxic Symptoms The medical The term drug overdose (or simply overdose or OD) describes the Ingestion or application of a Drug or other substance in quantities See also List of deadly fungi Mushroom poisoning, also known as mycetism, refers to deleterious effects from ingestion of Toxic substances present This is a list of Plants containing Poisonous parts that pose a serious risk of illness, injury or Death to Humans or Animals. Hazard symbols are easily recognizable symbols designed to warn about hazardous materials or locations The term carcinogen refers to any substance Radionuclide or radiation that is an agent directly involved in the promotion of Cancer or in the fatation of its propagation In Biology, a mutagen ( Latin, literally origin of change) is a physical or chemical agent that changes the genetic information (usually DNA) This is a list of Extremely Hazardous Substances as defined by Section 302 of the U Biological warfare (BW — known as a germ warfare, biological weapons and bioweaponry — is the use of any Pathogen ( Bacterium Characteristics Lead has a dull luster and is a dense, Ductile, very soft highly Lead may cause irreversible neurological damage as well as renal disease, cardiovascular effects, and reproductive toxicity. The kidneys are complicated organs that have numerous biological roles This is an article about the rock music band "Circulatory System" Human reproduction is the Reproduction of Humans. It is a form of Sexual reproduction, by Sexual intercourse between human Males and

Humans have been mining and using this heavy metal for thousands of years, poisoning themselves in the process due to accumulation and exposure. These dangers have long been known, though the modern understanding of their full extent and the small amount of lead necessary to produce them is relatively recent; blood lead levels once considered safe are now considered hazardous, with no known threshold. Reducing these hazards requires both individual actions and public policy regulations. ^[1]

History

Lead was first mined in Asia Minor (today Turkey) about 6500 BC. Anatolia (Anadolu Ανατολία Anatolía) or Asia minor, comprising most of modern Turkey, is the geographic region bounded by the Black Turkey (Türkiye known officially as the Republic of Turkey ( is a Eurasian Country that stretches A 6000- to 8000-year-old lead necklace was found in the ancient city site of Anatolia. Anatolia (Anadolu Ανατολία Anatolía) or Asia minor, comprising most of modern Turkey, is the geographic region bounded by the Black Lead's easy workability, low melting point and corrosion resistance were among its attractions.

Lead toxicity was first recognized as early as 200 BC. Nicander of Colophon wrote of lead-induced anemia and colic in 250 BC. Nicander of Colophon (Νίκανδρος ὁ Κολοφώνιος 2nd century BC) Greek Poet, Physician and grammarian was born at Claros Anemia ( AmE) or anæmia/anaemia ( BrE) (from the Ancient Greek grc-Latn anaîmia, meaning “without blood” is defined as a qualitative "Cholic" redirects here For cholic acid see Cholic acid. ^[2] Gout, prevalent in affluent Rome, is thought to be the result of lead, or leaded eating and drinking vessels. Gout (also called metabolic arthritis) is a disease created by a buildup of Uric acid. Rome ( Roma ˈroma Roma is the capital city of Italy and Lazio, and is Italy's largest and most populous city with more than 2 Lead was used in makeup. Sugar of lead (lead(II) acetate) was used to sweeten wine, and the gout that resulted from this was known as saturnine gout. Lead(II acetate is a Chemical compound, a white crystalline substance with a Sweetish taste Gout (also called metabolic arthritis) is a disease created by a buildup of Uric acid. ^[3]

Aulus Cornelius Celsus, writing ca. Aulus Cornelius Celsus (ca 25 BC—ca 50 was a Roman encyclopedist and Physician. 30 AD, listed white lead on a list of poisons with antidotes (beside cantharides, hemlock, hyoscyamus, poisoned mushrooms, and a swallowed leech), and claimed it could be remedied by mallow or walnut juice rubbed up in wine. ^{[4] [5][6]} Despite his awareness of lead's toxicity, citing many contemporary authorities, Celsus recommended its use in a wide range of ointments applied to wounds to stop bleeding and reduce infection or inflammation. ^[7]

Julius Caesar's engineer, Vitruvius, who also served his successor Caesar Augustus, reported, "Water is much more wholesome from earthenware pipes than from lead pipes. Marcus Vitruvius Pollio (born c 80–70 BC died after c 15 BC was a Roman Writer, Architect and Engineer (possibly praefectus fabrum For it seems to be made injurious by lead, because white lead, a pigment base produced by soaking lead in vineger until a soft paste, is produced from it; and this is said to be harmful to the human body. "^[8] It should be noted that the prevalence of lead poisoning, at least that caused by drinking water containing lead, in ancient Rome is far less than what is traditionally believed. The hardness of Rome's water caused heavy deposits of calcium carbonate to form on pipes and in turn prevented the lead of the pipes from coming into contact with the water, thus reducing the chance of getting lead poisoning from drinking water. Calcium carbonate is a Chemical compound with the Chemical formula Ca[[Carbon C]] O 3 The calcium deposits takes some time to collect. Older homes have the potential for less lead exposure where new homes with fresh pipes, connections and construction residue have a good potential for lead poisoning of occupants.

In 17th-century Germany, an Ulm physician noticed that monks who did not drink wine were healthy, while wine drinkers developed colic. Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany ( ˈbʊndəsʁepuˌbliːk ˈdɔʏtʃlant is a Country in Central Europe. Ulm (ˈʊlm is a City in the German Bundesland of Baden-Württemberg, situated on the River Danube. The culprit was sugar of lead, made by simmering litharge with vinegar. Litharge is one of the natural mineral forms of Lead(II oxide, PbO ^[9]

In 18th-century Boston, lead poisoning was fairly frequent on account of the widespread drinking of rum in that city, which was distilled in stills with one component (the "worm") made of lead. Rum is a Distilled beverage made from Sugarcane by-products such as Molasses and sugarcane Juice by a process of fermentation A still is an apparatus used to distill Miscible or immiscible (eg ^[10]

Chinese alchemists found that lead could be rendered harmless by soaking it in blood and firing it. When this process was repeated several times it provided a protective coat that lead could not pass. The only notable use of this measure was by martial artists so they could use the heavy metal as weights for training.

Today, most exposure in developed countries is the result of occupational hazards, leaded paint, and leaded gasoline (which continues to be phased out in most countries). Paint is any Liquid, liquifiable or mastic composition which after application to a substrate in a thin layer is converted to an opaque Solid Lead poisoning interferes with the normal development of the brain.

The term "lead poisoning" is sometimes used as a euphemism for gunshot wounds, as almost all bullets are mainly composed of lead. A euphemism is a substitution of an agreeable or less offensive expression in place of one that may offend or suggest something unpleasant to the listener or in the case of doublespeak The field of wound ballistics largely comprises the study of the physiology and medical effects of Projectile Weapons (chiefly but not exclusively Bullets Despite this, bullets lodged in the body rarely cause significant levels of lead poisoning. ^[11] Bullets lodged in the joints are the exception, as they deteriorate and release lead into the body over time. ^[12]

Symptoms and effects

The symptoms of chronic lead poisoning include neurological problems, such as reduced cognitive abilities, or nausea, abdominal pain, irritability, insomnia, metal taste in oral cavity, excess lethargy or hyperactivity, chest pain, headache and, in extreme cases, seizure and coma. Nausea ( Latin: Nausea, Greek:, " Sea-sickness " also called wamble) is the sensation of unease and discomfort Abdominal pain can be one of the Symptoms associated with transient disorders or serious disease Irritability is an excessive response to stimuli. Irritability takes many forms from the Contraction of a Unicellular organism when touched to complex Insomnia is a symptom of a sleeping disorder characterized by persistent difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep despite the opportunity Hyperactivity can be described as a physical state in which a person is abnormally and easily excitable or exuberant In Medicine, chest pain is a Symptom of a number of serious conditions and is generally considered a Medical emergency. A headache ( cephalalgia in medical terminology is a condition of pain in the Head; sometimes Neck or upper back pain may also be interpreted An epileptic seizure is caused by excessive and/or hypersynchronous electrical Neuronal activity and is usually self-limiting In Medicine, a coma (from the Greek koma, meaning deep sleep is a profound state of Unconsciousness. There are also associated gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, poor appetite, weight loss, which are common in acute poisoning. Constipation, costiveness, or irregularity, is a condition of the Digestive system in which a person (or animal experiences hard Feces that In Medicine, diarrhea, also spelled diarrhoea (see spelling differences) is frequent loose or liquid Bowel movements Acute diarrhea Vomiting (also called throwing up, emesis) is the forceful expulsion of the contents of one's Stomach through the Mouth and sometimes the Anorexia (deriving from the Greek "α(ν-" ( a(n-, a prefix that denotes absence + "όρεξη (orexe = appetite is the decreased sensation Weight loss, in the context of Medicine or Health or Physical fitness, is a reduction of the total Body weight, due to a mean loss of fluid Other associated effects are anemia, kidney problems, and reproductive problems. Anemia ( AmE) or anæmia/anaemia ( BrE) (from the Ancient Greek grc-Latn anaîmia, meaning “without blood” is defined as a qualitative

In humans, lead toxicity sometimes causes the formation of a bluish line along the gums, which is known as the "Burton's line", although this is very uncommon in young children. The gingiva (sing and plur: gingiva) or gums, consists of the Mucosal tissue that lies over the Alveolar bone. Blood film examination may reveal "basophilic stippling" of red blood cells, as well as the changes normally associated with iron deficiency anemia (microcytosis and hypochromia). A Blood Film or Peripheral Blood Smear is a slide made from a drop of Blood, that allows the cells to be examined microscopically However, basophillic stippling is also seen in unrelated conditions, such as megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B12 (colbalamin) and folate deficiencies. ^[13]

Lead affects the peripheral and central nervous system. In Vertebrates the central nervous system ( CNS) is the part of the Nervous system which is enclosed in the Meninges. The most common sign of peripheral neuropathy due to chronic lead poisoning is painless wristdrop (weakness of the extensor muscles of hand) which usually develops after many weeks of exposure. Neuropathy is a medical term usually short for Peripheral neuropathy. Wrist drop, also known as Radial nerve palsy, is a condition where a person can not extend their Wrist and it hangs Flaccidly.

A direct link between early lead exposure and extreme learning disability has been confirmed by multiple researchers and child advocacy groups. In the United States and Canada, the term learning disability (LD refers to a group of disorders that affect a broad range of academic and functional skills including Child advocacy refers to a range of individuals professionals and advocacy organizations who promote the optimal development of children

A May 2000 study by economic consultant Rick Nevin theorizes that lead exposure explains 65% to 90% of the variation in violent crime rates in the U. Rick Nevin is an economic consultant who acts as an adviser to the National Center for Healthy Housing and has worked on the Federal Strategy to eliminate childhood S. ^[14][15]. A July 2007 paper by the same author claims to show a strong association between preschool blood lead and subsequent crime rate trends over several decades across nine different countries^[16]. These results were discussed in a July 2007 Washington Post article, reviving interest in the subject^[17]. Nevin's results reflect peer reviewed findings by Dartmouth Political Scientist Roger D. Masters,^{[18] [19]}and similar work is being done by other researchers. Amherst economist Jessica Reyes' working paper^[20] and Masters' work are both pre-publication and available online.

Biological role

Lead has no known physiologically relevant role in the body. The toxicity of lead comes from its ability to mimic other biologically important metals, most notably calcium, iron and zinc which act as cofactors in many enzymatic reactions. The M acro E xpansion T emplate A ttribute L anguage complements TAL, providing macros which allow the reuse of code across Calcium (ˈkælsiəm is the Chemical element with the symbol Ca and Atomic number 20 Iron (ˈаɪɚn is a Chemical element with the symbol Fe (ferrum and Atomic number 26 Zinc (ˈzɪŋk from Zink is a Metallic Chemical element with the symbol Zn and Atomic number 30 Lead is able to bind to and interact with many of the same enzymes as these metals but, due to its differing chemistry, does not properly function as a cofactor, thus interfering with the enzyme's ability to catalyze its normal reaction(s). Enzymes are Biomolecules that catalyze ( ie increase the rates of Chemical reactions Almost all enzymes are Proteins

Most lead poisoning symptoms are thought to occur by interfering with an essential enzyme Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase, or ALAD. Enzymes are Biomolecules that catalyze ( ie increase the rates of Chemical reactions Almost all enzymes are Proteins Porphobilinogen synthase (or ALA dehydratase, or Aminolevulinate dehydratase) synthesizes Porphobilinogen through the asymmetric Condensation ALAD is a zinc-binding protein which is important in the biosynthesis of heme, the cofactor found in hemoglobin. A heme ( American English) or haem ( British English) is a Prosthetic group that consists of an Iron atom contained in the center of Hemoglobin ( also spelled haemoglobin and abbreviated Hb or Hgb) is the Iron -containing Oxygen -transport Metalloprotein Lead poisoning also inhibits the enzyme ferrochelatase which catalyzes the joining of protoporphyrin IX and Fe2+ to form a Heme. Ferrochelatase (FECH protoheme ferrolyase is an enzyme that catalyses the terminal (eighth step in the biosynthesis of Heme, converting Protoporphyrin IX into In the metabolism of Porphyrin, protoporphyrin IX is created by the enzyme Protoporphyrinogen oxidase, and the enzyme Ferrochelatase converts it into Iron (ˈаɪɚn is a Chemical element with the symbol Fe (ferrum and Atomic number 26 A heme ( American English) or haem ( British English) is a Prosthetic group that consists of an Iron atom contained in the center of Genetic mutations of ALAD cause the disease porphyria, a disease which was highlighted in the movie The Madness of King George. Porphyrias are a group of inherited or acquired disorders of certain Enzymes in the Heme biosynthetic pathway (also called Porphyrin pathway This article is about the 1994 film For the play by Alan Bennett see The Madness of George III (play and for a 2004 political satire see The Madness of King George Lead poisoning is sometimes mistaken for porphyria but the distinction is that lead poisoning usually causes anemia while true porphyria does not.

An article on Lead Encephalopathy on Emedicine states:

Lead also interferes with excitatory neurotransmission by glutamate, which is the transmitter at more than half the synapses in the brain and is critical for learning. The glutamate receptor thought to be associated with neuronal development and plasticity is the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is blocked selectively by lead. NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartic acid is an Amino acid derivative acting as a specific Agonist at the NMDA receptor, and therefore mimics the action of the This disrupts long-term potentiation, which compromises the permanent retention of newly learned information. ^[21]

The January 2004 edition of Scientific American magazine contained an article on schizophrenia that said the latest research:

. Schizophrenia ( from the Greek roots schizein (σχίζειν "to split" and phrēn . . implies that their brain circuits reliant on NMDA receptors are out of kilter. If reduced NMDA receptor activity prompts schizophrenia's symptoms, what then causes this reduction? The answer still remains unclear.

However, a Johns Hopkins report by Tomas Guilarte stated:

It has been known for some time that lead is a potent inhibitor of the NMDA receptor, a protein known to play an important role in brain development and cognition. In this study we demonstrate that lead exposure decreased the amount of NMDA receptor gene and protein in a part of the brain called the hippocampus. ^[22]

Ezra Susser and his colleagues at Columbia University in New York followed 12,000 children born in Oakland, California, between 1959 and 1966, whose mothers had given samples of blood serum while they were pregnant, which were frozen and stored for later analysis. They found that children who had been exposed to high levels of lead in the womb were more than twice as likely to go on to develop schizophrenia. Their research was presented at the 2004 annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Seattle, Washington.

Lead poisoning can also be fatal.

Occurrence

Outside of occupational hazards, the majority of lead poisoning occurs in children under age twelve. The main sources of poisoning are from ingestion of lead contaminated soil (this is less of a problem in countries that no longer have leaded gasoline) and from ingestion of lead dust or chips from deteriorating lead-based paints. Soil, often typeset as SOiL, is a four piece rock band from Chicago Illinois United States founded by Shaun Glass Tom Schofield Tim King and Adam Zadel Tetra-ethyl lead, abbreviated TEL, is an organometallic compound with the formula ( CH3CH2)4 Pb. Paint is any Liquid, liquifiable or mastic composition which after application to a substrate in a thin layer is converted to an opaque Solid This is particularly a problem in older houses where the sweet-tasting lead paint is likely to chip, but deteriorating lead-based paint can also powder and be inhaled. Small children also tend to teethe and suck on painted windowsills as they look outside. In most American states, landlords and those selling such houses are required to inform the potential residents of the danger. Landlord is the owner of a House, Apartment, Condominium, or Real estate which is rented or Leased to an individual or business

Lead has also been found in drinking water. It can come from plumbing and fixtures that are either made of lead or have trace amounts of lead in them. ^[23] In 2004, seven reporters from The Washington Post discovered high levels of lead in the drinking water in Washington, D.C. The team won an award for investigative reporting for a series of articles about this contamination. The Washington Post is the largest and most circulated Newspaper in Washington D Characteristics Lead has a dull luster and is a dense, Ductile, very soft highly Washington DC ( formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington, the District, or simply D Investigative journalism is a type of reporting in which reporters deeply investigate a topic of interest often involving crime Political corruption, or some other Scandal ^[24][25]

Exposure to metallic lead such as small lead objects, can rarely lead to an increase in blood lead levels if the lead is retained in the gastrointestinal tract or appendix.

Lead can also be found in some imported cosmetics such as Kohl, from the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and some parts of Africa, and Surma from India and from imported toys, such as many made in China. Kohl is a mixture of Soot and other ingredients used predominantly by Middle Eastern North African Sub-Saharan African and South Asian There are also risks of elevated blood lead levels caused by folk remedies like Azarcon which contains 95 percent lead and is used to "cure" empacho. For more information about less common causes of elevated blood lead levels, see footnote. ^[26]

Lead may be contracted through the mucous membranes through direct contact to mouth, nose, eyes, and breaks in skin.

Measurement

One measure of lead in the body is the blood lead level (BLL), measured in micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood (μg/dL). Blood lead level (BLL is a measure of Lead in the body It is measured in micrograms of lead per deciliter of Blood (μg/dL 10 µg/dL is equivalent to 0 Blood is a specialized Bodily fluid that delivers necessary substances to the body's cells ��such as nutrients and oxygen—and transports Waste products Nearly everyone has a measurable BLL. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 10 μg/dL or above is a cause for concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (or CDC) is an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services based in unincorporated However, lead can impair development even at BLLs below 10 μg/dL. ^[27] However, BLL measures current exposure to lead, but lead may also be incorporated into bone from prior exposures that will not show in BLLs until this bone-lead becomes "mobilized" through pregnancy or fracture healing. A fetus can be poisoned in utero if its mother had high bone-lead from either childhood exposure or a later occupational or other exposure that is subsequently mobilized by the fetal need for calcium. K-fluorescent X-ray metering can measure bone-lead.

Portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) equipment can be used to measure lead concentrations and exposures in the field, from lead paint, children's toys, etc. X-ray fluorescence (XRF is the emission of characteristic "secondary" (or fluorescent X-rays from a material that has been excited by bombarding with high-energy Simple inexpensive test kits are available, which show color changes based on chemical reactions, but they are inexact.

Exposures and demographics

The average person has less than 10 micrograms per deciliter, or 100 parts per billion, ppb, of lead in their blood. In the Metric system, a microgram is 1/1000000 of a Gram (1 × 10-6 or 1/1000 of a milligram is one of the smallest units of weight/mass commonly used The litre or liter (see spelling differences) is a unit of Volume. "Parts-per" notation is used especially in Science and Engineering, to denote Ratios (relative proportions in measured quantities particularly People who have been exposed to an unusual amount of lead will have blood lead levels higher than 200 ppb—most clinical symptoms of lead poisoning begin at around 100 ppb. The effect on children's mental/cognitive abilities has been noted at very low levels. ^[28] The levels found today in most people are orders of magnitude greater than that of ancient times. These levels are within an order of magnitude of levels that have resulted in adverse health effects. ^[29] Blood lead levels once considered safe are now considered hazardous, with no known threshold. ^[30] Although many people are exposed to lead through household products, workplace, and lead paint, studies show that people of color and recent immigrants are at a much greater risk for high levels of exposure than whites^[31]. Low income people often live in rental housing with lead paint, and unless the landlord conducts regular inspections, paint may begin to peel and residents will be exposed to high levels of lead paint dust, thus greatly increasing their chance of lead poisoning.

Pathways

Today almost everyone is exposed to environmental lead. Exposure to lead and lead chemicals can occur through inhalation, ingestion or occasionally dermal contact. Lead mining and lead smelting are common in many countries, where children and adults can receive substantial lead exposure from sources uncommon today in the U. S. Most countries will have phased out use of leaded gasoline by 2007. Lead exposure in the general population (including children) occurs primarily through ingestion, although inhalation also contributes to lead body burden and may be the major contributor for workers in lead-related occupations. Inhalation is the second major pathway of exposure. Almost all inhaled lead is absorbed into the body, whereas from 20% to 70% of ingested lead is absorbed (with children generally absorbing a higher percentage than adults do). Dermal exposure plays a role for exposure to organic lead among workers, but is not considered a significant pathway for the general population, except in areas where leaded gasoline is used. Organic lead from gasoline additives may be absorbed directly through the skin. ^[32]

Children

Lead-contaminated household dust is the major source of lead exposure to children in the U. S. ^[33] A 2006 study in New York City found lead levels in settled outdoor dust, which is a source of household dust, of 175 to 730 μg/ft², and noted that these levels exceed the HUD/EPA lead in indoor dust standard of 40 μg/ft². The City of New York The United States Department of Housing, often abbreviated HUD, is a Cabinet department of the United States federal government. ^[34] In 1978 there were 13. 5 million children in the United States with elevated blood lead levels (i. e. , 10µg/dl). By 2002, that number had dropped to 310,000 children. ^[35] The U. S. incurs $43. 4 billion annually in the costs of all pediatric environmental disease, with childhood lead poisoning alone accounting for the vast majority of it. ^[36]

Adults

Although children are at greater risk from lead exposure, adult exposures can also result in harmful health effects. Most adult exposures are occupational and occur in lead-related industries such as lead smelting, refining, and manufacturing industries. One frequent source of lead exposure to adults is home renovation that involves scraping, remodeling, or otherwise disturbing lead-based paint. Adults can also be exposed during certain hobbies and activities where lead is used. Workers may inhale lead dust and lead oxide fumes, as well as eat, drink, and smoke in or near contaminated areas, thereby increasing their probability of lead ingestion. Between 0. 5 and 1. 5 million US workers are exposed to lead in the workplace (ATSDR, 1999). Other than the developmental effects unique to young children, the health effects experienced by adults from adult exposures are similar to those experienced by children, although the thresholds are generally higher. ^[37]

Regulation

US Rules and Regulations

See United States Environmental Protection Agency: Rules and Regulations for its jurisdiction and regulations.

"In 1998, the US Government instituted regulations which limit the amount of lead in toys and other consumer products which are expected to be used by infants to 0. 06% (or 600 ppm). "^[38]

Ten µg/dL (micrograms /deciliter) was adopted by CDC in 1991 as an action level for children, an advisory level for environmental and educational intervention, though the agency acknowledges that "Recent studies have suggested possible neurodevelopmental effects concentrations of less than 10 µg/dL. "^[39] There are requirements that children receiving Medicaid be screened. Most states ask or require primary care physicians and persons in charge of screening programs to report both presumptive and confirmed cases of lead toxicity to the appropriate health agency. This is to ensure abatement of the lead source, education of the patient, and remediation steps are undertaken. In some states, the clinical laboratories performing blood lead testing are required to report cases of lead toxicity.

In early 2008, the watchdog Food and Drug Administration ordered several US retail stores and malls to remove bindi and sindoor from their shelves due to concerns over high lead and other harmful chemical contents. Mal T-cell differentiation protein-like, also known as MALL, is a human Gene. Sindoor is a red powder which is applied as a full line along the dividing part of a married woman’s hair or as a dot on the forehead Characteristics Lead has a dull luster and is a dense, Ductile, very soft highly [2]

Workplace Air

The OSHA Lead Standard specifies the permissible exposure limit (PEL) of lead in the workplace, the frequency and extent of medical monitoring, and other responsibilities of the employer. OSHA has set a PEL (enforceable) of lead in workplace air at 50 µg/m3 averaged over an 8-hour workday for workers in general industry. NIOSH at CDC has set a Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) of 50 µg/m3 to be maintained so that worker blood lead remains < 60 µg/dL of whole blood. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (or NIOSH) is the United States federal agency responsible for conducting research and making recommendations ^[40] The ACGIH has set a threshold limit value for a time-weighted average (TLV/TWA) of 50 µg/m3 for lead in workplace air (except for lead arsenate). ^[41]

The NIOSH Adult Blood Lead Epidemiology and Surveillance (ABLES) program,^[42] a state-based surveillance program of laboratory-reported adult blood lead levels works to reduce the rate of adults (age 16 or older) who have blood lead levels of 25 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) or greater. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (or NIOSH) is the United States federal agency responsible for conducting research and making recommendations ^[43]

Lead contaminated soil can pose a risk through direct ingestion, uptake in vegetable gardens, or tracking into homes. Uncontaminated soil contains lead concentrations less than 50 ppm but soil lead levels in many urban areas exceed 200 ppm. (AAP 1993) The EPA’s standard for lead in bare soil in play areas is 400 ppm by weight and 1200 ppm for non-play areas. This regulation applies to cleanup projects using federal funds. The soil screening level (SSL) for lead represents a conservative estimate for a level that would be protective of public health in residential soils based on an analysis of the direct ingestion pathway for children.

EPA has set drinking water standards with two levels of protection. The maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) is zero. This is the level determined to be safe by toxicological and biomedical considerations, independent of feasibility. EPA’s final rule establishes an action level is set at 15 µg/L. The use of lead solder and other lead-containing materials in connecting household plumbing to public water supplies was banned by EPA as of June 1988.

FDA has set a number of action levels (enforceable) and levels of concern for lead in various food items. These levels are based on FDA calculations of the amount of lead a person can consume without ill affect. FDA has set an action level of 0. 5 µg/mL for lead in products intended for use by infants and children and has banned the use of lead-soldered food cans. ^[44]

House paint contained up to 50% lead before 1955. Federal law lowered the amount of lead allowable in paint to 1% in 1971. The CPSC has limited since 1977 the lead in most paints to 0. 06% (600 ppm by dry weight). Paint for bridges and marine use may contain greater amounts of lead. ^[45]

Both the federal government and the state of Massachusetts are considering (as of September 2007) action against lead in children’s jewelry. "But Mr. Durbin said he was disappointed with Ms. Nord and the safety commission, which he said did not appear to be attacking the problem aggressively enough, including moving too slowly to institute and enforce a ban on lead in children’s jewelry. He also mocked a new agreement with Chinese officials to block lead in toys, saying that the Chinese government told his office the policy had long been in place. "^[46]

Less regulated countries

Dermatologists have concluded that the internal effects of lead are dangerous, as it has effects on the central nervous system, kidney and heart. Dermatology (from Greek grc δέρμα derma, "skin" and grc -λογία -logia) is a branch of Medicine dealing with Nevertheless, the emergence of synthetic dye industry has led to a variety of chemical dyes and salts being produced at a cheaper price in India. A dye can generally be described as a Colored substance that has an affinity to the substrate to which it is being applied

Treatment

Although the most important part of treating lead poisoning is decreasing exposure to lead, there are some forms of chelation therapy that can be used to reduce existing BLL levels:

• DMSA
• EDTA
• British anti-Lewisite

Additionally, a comparative study of chelating agents showed that vitamin C (ascorbic acid), along with DMSA, CDTA and DMPS increased survival in an animal model of lead intoxication, while EGTA, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and various other agents did not. Chelation therapy is the administration of chelating agents to remove Heavy metals from the body Dimercaptosuccinic acid, or DMSA is the Chemical compound with the formula HO2CCH(SHCH(SHCO2H EDTA is a widely used abbreviation for the Chemical compound ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (and many other names see table Dimercaprol ( INN) or British anti-Lewisite (abbreviated BAL) is a compound developed by British biochemists at Oxford University during Vitamin C or L-ascorbate is an Essential nutrient for a large number of higher primate species a small number of other Mammalian ^[47] High serum levels of vitamin C have been associated with a decreased prevalence of elevated blood lead levels^[48] and intervention with supplemental vitamin C was shown to markedly decrease lead levels in smokers (mean: 81 %). Authors hypothesize, however, that this effect might be due to an inhibition of lead absorption. ^[49]

References

Other meanings

The phrase "lead poisoning" is sometimes used as slang for death by shooting, as bullets and shot are usually made of lead. Slang is the use of highly informal Words and expressions that are not considered standard in the speaker's Dialect or Language. Shooting is the act or process of firing Rifles Shotguns or other projectile Weapons such as bows or Crossbows Even the firing of A bullet is a solid Projectile propelled by a Firearm or Air gun and is normally made from metal (usually Lead) Lead shot is a collective term for small balls of Lead. It is used primarily as Projectiles in Shotguns but is also used for a variety of other purposes

See also

• Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive -- RoHS Lead regulation in Europe
• Lead paint
• Environmental medicine

External links

• Argonne Lab confirms Beethoven lead poisoning, Dec. 2005
• ATSDR - Case Studies in Environmental Medicine (CSEM): Lead Toxicity U. The Directive on the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment 2002/95/EC ( / commonly referred to as the Restriction of Hazardous Lead paint is Paint containing Lead, a heavy metal, that is used as pigment with Lead(II chromate ( Pb[[Chromium Cr]] O4 Environmental medicine is a Multidisciplinary field involving Medicine, Environmental science, Chemistry and others S. Department of Health and Human Services (public domain)
• Helping Parents Prevent Lead Poisoning
• History of lead poisoning in the world
• Lead Poisoning and Rome
• National Pollutant Inventory - Lead and Lead Compounds Fact Sheet
• ToxFAQs: Lead
• Low-Level Environmental Lead Exposure and Children’s Intellectual Function: An International Pooled Analysis
• Plumbism in the pottery industry
• Environmental Quality Institute - Lead Poisoning Prevention Progam
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - ABLES program
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - Lead Topic Page