The relationship between blood lead level and the severity of abdominal pain in opioid-addicted patients during a hospital outbreak

Abstract

An increase in the incidence of abdominal pain in opioid abusers over a period of time increased the suspicion of lead poisoning. The severity of abdominal pain and its relationship with blood lead level (BLL) were investigated during a hospital outbreak. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study on opioid-addicted patients presenting with abdominal pain. Pain severity was measured based on the numerical rating scale (NRS). Blood lead and serum uric acid levels were determined. The presence of basophilic stippling was sought in the peripheral blood smear. Also, the X-ray was performed to assess abdominal cavity. Of 239 patients, 160 opioid addicts presenting with abdominal pain participated in the study. There were significant associations between the severity of abdominal pain and the type of opioid, the route and, duration of opioid consumption, the presence of basophilic stippling in peripheral blood smear and radio-opaque opioids in abdominal X-ray, as well as BLL and serum uric acid level (P < 0.0001). Opium abuse is a common cause of lead poisoning in Iran. The patients with lead poisoning may present with abdominal pain. The severity of abdominal pain significantly correlated with BLL. Continuous screening of BLL is recommended in opioid abusers.

Keywords:

• Abdominal pain
• lead poisoning
• opium
• outbreak
• uric acid

Declaration of interest statement

No conflict of interest was reported by the authors.