Identification
and Management of Lead Affected People
|
Blood
lead level |
Symptoms
/ Indicators |
What
to do |
0.48–1.20µmol/L
(10 – 25 µg/dL) |
No
symptoms.
Symptoms will not be present at these levels, but can show up later as
reduced IQ, learning difficulties, delays in development and
behavioural problems |
Education
on minimising exposures. Consider retesting in 3 – 12 months. If no
increase, retest in 12 months, depending on exposure. If > 36
months test annually only if risk continues. Assess iron status
if > 0.72 µmol/L. |
1.20–2.17
µmol/L
(25 – 45 µg/dL) |
No
symptoms |
Education
on minimising exposures. Refer for paediatric assessment . Assess iron
status. Retest in 15 days – 3 months depending on age, exposure and
level.
Arrange environmental assessment. |
2.17 –
2.66 µmol/L
(45 – 55 µg/dL) |
Moderate
Lead Poisoning:
- muscle pains
- irritability
- lethargy
- abdominal discomfort
- weight loss
|
Education
on minimising exposures. Refer for paediatric assessment . Assess iron
status. Retest in 1– 4 weeks depending on age, exposure and level.
Arrange environmental assessment. |
>2.66
µmol/L
( >55 µg/dL) |
Severe
lead poisoning
- abdominal pain
- general fatigue
- constipation
- severe head ache
|
Refer to
tertiary paediatric hospital (where possible) for immediate urgent
paediatric assessment and possible chelation therapy. Arrange
environmental assessment and abatement if appropriate before
returning home. |
Usually
>3.38 µmol/L
( >70 µg/dL) |
Medical
emergency
- paralysis
- fits
- coma
- gingival lead line
|
Refer to
tertiary paediatric hospital (where possible) for immediate urgent
paediatric assessment and chelation therapy. Arrange environmental
assessment and abatement if appropriate before returning home. |