Laboratory Diagnosis of Increased Lead Absorption

Abstract

There are multiple tests for the detection and diagnosis of increased lead absorption, but one test from each of two major categories excels as being most useful at the present time. These are blood lead concentration and free erythrocyte porphyrin (FEP) concentration. The blood lead test gives a measure of the dynamic body lead pool while the FEP test gives a sensitive measurement of tissue metabolic effect of increased lead absorption. Use of these tests in conjunction provides not only a useful diagnostic profile, but an important index of response to therapy. Both of these tests have been used as primary screening devices with each having unique advantages and disadvantages. Future screening programs for lead poisoning may well consist of a rapid determination of both lead and FEP concentration on a microcapillary blood sample. Other tests may have certain advantages in certain cases.