NEET PG High-Yield: Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning (Plumbism) is a serious occupational and environmental health hazard caused by the absorption of lead into the body.
Key Clinical Features
- Gastrointestinal: Colicky abdominal pain (Lead colic), constipation, and nausea.
- Hematological: Microcytic hypochromic anemia with Basophilic stippling of RBCs.
- Neurological: Peripheral neuropathy—specifically Wrist drop (radial nerve involvement) and foot drop.
- Oral: Burtonian line (a bluish-black line) on the gingival margins.
- Renal: Chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis (Lead nephropathy).
Diagnosis & Management
| Parameter | Notes |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Test | Blood lead level (BLL) is the gold standard. |
| Chelating Agents | Calcium Disodium EDTA, Dimercaprol (BAL), Succimer. |
High-Yield NEET PG Pearls:
- Mechanism: Lead inhibits enzymes in heme synthesis, specifically
-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) and ferrochelatase.
- High-Risk Occupations: Battery manufacturing, paint industry, smelting, and plumbing.
- Pediatric Concern: Lead is a neurotoxin; even low-level exposure causes cognitive impairment and behavioral changes in children.
- Screening: In at-risk workers, periodic monitoring of blood lead levels is mandatory.