Symptoms of Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning presents with a wide spectrum of multisystemic adverse effects ranging from subtle subclinical changes to life-threatening intoxication, affecting various organ systems throughout the body. 1
Neurological Symptoms
- Cognitive dysfunction including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and reduced intellectual capacity 1
- Decreased IQ, learning difficulties, and reduced attention span 2
- Behavioral problems including social withdrawal, depression, and aggression 3
- Peripheral and central nervous system damage in severe cases 4
- Encephalopathy and seizures at very high blood lead levels 5
- Atypical body movements 3
- Aphasia and swallowing disorders in severe cases 4
Cardiovascular Symptoms
Hematologic Symptoms
Renal Symptoms
Reproductive System Symptoms
Other Symptoms
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, vomiting) 8
- Fatigue and weakness 8
- Immune system dysfunction 7
- Liver damage at high exposure levels 1
Severity Based on Blood Lead Levels
- Blood lead levels <10 μg/dL: May cause subclinical neurological effects, especially in children 5
- Blood lead levels 10-19 μg/dL: Increased risk of hypertension, decreased renal function, and cognitive effects 5
- Blood lead levels 20-29 μg/dL: More pronounced symptoms requiring removal from exposure 6
- Blood lead levels 30-79 μg/dL: Significant symptoms requiring immediate medical evaluation 6
- Blood lead levels ≥80 μg/dL: Severe symptoms potentially requiring chelation therapy 6
- Blood lead levels ≥100 μg/dL: Life-threatening intoxication with risk of encephalopathy 5
Special Considerations
- Children are particularly vulnerable to lead toxicity due to their developing nervous systems 4, 3
- Lead exposure during pregnancy can affect fetal development 1, 6
- Effects of lead poisoning may be irreversible, especially neurological damage in children 2
- Symptoms may persist or progress even after removal from lead exposure due to lead stored in bones 5
Diagnostic Approach
- Blood lead level (BLL) is the primary diagnostic test for lead toxicity 1
- Serum creatinine measurement helps identify individuals with chronic renal dysfunction who may be at increased risk 1
- Abdominal radiography should be considered for children with pica behavior to identify lead-containing objects 1
Lead poisoning symptoms can vary widely in presentation and severity, making it essential to consider lead exposure in differential diagnosis, especially in children with developmental or behavioral issues and adults with unexplained multisystem complaints 1, 8.