Test Detail
Understanding the Test
Interpreting Results
FAQ's
Other Tests
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Written by
Dr. Betina Chandolia
BDS, MDS - Oral Pathology and Microbiology
Reviewed by
Dr. Ashish Ranjan
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
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Lead , Blood

Also known as Blood Lead Levels
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female

Understanding Lead , Blood


What is Lead , Blood?

Lead is a toxic metal that affects multiple body systems. We probably all have at least a little exposure to lead because it’s all around us. But exposure to high amounts of lead can be dangerous. Even with long-term exposure to low levels, lead can cause irreversible damage without associated physical symptoms. The lead test measures the lead level in your blood and helps determine its possible exposure. This test screens adults and children at risk for lead poisoning. In children, this test helps to monitor growth retardation. Also, this test is helpful for monitoring lead levels at workplaces where lead exposure could be a possibility. Furthermore, this test helps measure how well treatment for lead poisoning works.

What is Lead , Blood used for?

The Blood Lead Test is performed:

·         To detect lead poisoning, especially in children

·         To monitor treatment for lead poisoning

 

 

Interpreting Lead , Blood results


Interpretations

Acceptable range:

Children: Below 10 µg/dL

Adults: Below 25 µg/dL

Acceptable for industrial exposure: Below 50 µg/dL

Toxicity: 100 µg/dL and above

Lead is toxic even in trace amounts, thus there is no normal range for lead.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lead , Blood


Frequently Asked Questions about Lead , Blood

Q. Is there any preparation required before the Blood Lead Test?

Inform the doctor about any medications you may be taking. No other preparations are required unless specified by your doctor.

Q. Is there any risk associated with this test?

There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience increased bleeding, hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin), bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.

Q. What other tests can be prescribed by your doctor in case the result of Blood Lead Test is not normal?

Other tests that may be prescribed upon appearance of abnormal result in the Blood Lead Test include: · Complete Blood Count Test · Reticulocyte Count Test · Serum Iron Test · Total Iron-Binding Capacity Test · Ferritin Test · Serum Electrolytes Test · Blood Urea Nitrogen Test · Creatinine Test · Blood Calcium Test · Magnesium Test · Liver Function Test · Urinalysis

Q. What occupations can expose you to lead?

Lead exposure is common in certain occupations, such as: · Lead smelting · Construction · Welding · Firing range · Foundry work · Recycling of scrap metal · Making stained glass · Ceramic pottery using lead glazing · Metal painting · Automobile repair and painting · Working as an electrician · Cable work

Q. What are the symptoms of lead poisoning or toxic exposure to lead?

Symptoms of lead poisoning include: · Headache · Nausea and vomiting · Rapid weight loss · Fatigue · Weakness · Pain in stomach · Anemia due to low counts of red blood cell · Seizures · Hair loss · Behavioral changes and difficulty in remembering things (cognitive impairment), especially in children · Kidney dysfunction · Nervous system disorders · Loss of reproductive capabilities · Reduced mental development in children
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