MORNING REPORTJuly 19th 2010
Why are lead levels important?
250,000 US children aged 1-5 years have a lead level >10
Where do I find information?
At risk
Children <6yo Rapid growth Absorption of more
lead Poverty Minority groups
Especially immigrants Occupationally
exposed parents Old house
Symptoms
Children with lead poisoning often have no symptoms
A child can be poisoned and show no outward signs
Symptoms: diarrhea, stomach cramps, lethargy, headache, clumsiness, agitation, vomiting, or seizures in some severe cases
Toxic Effects
Learning disabilities Decreased growth Hyperactivity Impaired hearing Even brain damage
Testing
Children at ages 1 and 2 years of age Children between 3 and 6 years of age if
not previously tested. Children or other family members who
have been exposed to high levels of lead Blood lead measurement
Not x rays Not hair samples
LA Dept of Health
LCLPPP Louisiana Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
Program Identifies increased levels Care Coordination Environmental Inspection Community and Professional Education
Handouts, Links, Prevention Plan, etc.
Treatment
Involve specialists Pediatrician Poison control AAP Executive committee
>45 Succimer
“rotten egg” smell, abd distress, transient rash, increased liver enzymes, neutropenia
>70 or allergic to succimer EDTA and hospitalize
