Category: Detoxification & Environmental Medicine

Reducing toxic load to improve overall health.

Lead in Ancient Human Bones and Its Relevance to Historical Developments of Social Problems with Lead

This archaeological toxicology study analyzed lead content in ancient human bones to assess historical exposure levels and social implications. Results showed that Roman-era skeletons exhibited bone lead levels approximately 1000 times higher than those from pre-industrial populations, such as in ancient Peru. The use of barium-to-lead ratios in bone apatite

Read More »

Efficacy of DMSA Therapy in a Sample of Arab Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

This clinical study evaluated the use of dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) in Arab children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to explore possible benefits related to heavy metal detoxification. The study involved a structured chelation protocol and assessed behavioral changes post-treatment. Results showed statistically significant improvements in communication, social interaction, and

Read More »

Shortened Forms of Provocative Lead Chelation

This study evaluated the efficacy of abbreviated chelation protocols using calcium disodium EDTA (CaNa₂EDTA) to assess lead body burden in occupationally exposed individuals. By comparing 4-hour and 24-hour urinary lead excretion following chelation, the researchers found that the shorter 4-hour collection correlated strongly with the 24-hour results, suggesting it could

Read More »

A Review on Coordination Properties of Thiol-Containing Chelating Agents Towards Mercury, Cadmium, and Lead

This review analyzes the coordination behavior and therapeutic potential of thiol-based chelators—DMSA, DMPS, BAL, and α-lipoic acid—against toxic metals mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb). It outlines how these metals interact preferentially with sulfur-containing ligands due to their classification as soft or borderline acids. DMSA is noted for its

Read More »

Predictors of Lead Stores in Male Veterans

This study examined factors influencing cumulative lead burden in male veterans, utilizing bone lead measurements via K-shell X-ray fluorescence. Findings indicated that age, occupational exposure, and lifestyle factors such as smoking were significant predictors of elevated bone lead levels. The research underscores the importance of considering these variables when assessing

Read More »

Dimercaptosuccinic acid (succimer; DMSA) in inorganic lead poisoning

This review examines the use of dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA or succimer) in treating inorganic lead poisoning. DMSA is an orally administered chelating agent that effectively increases urinary excretion of lead and lowers blood lead levels. It is well absorbed, binds to plasma proteins, and is excreted primarily via the kidneys.

Read More »

Lead in Bone II: Skeletal-Lead Content as an Indicator of Lifetime Lead Ingestion and the Social Correlates in an Archaeological Population

This study analyzed skeletal lead concentrations in 16 individuals from a colonial-era (1670–1730) Virginia plantation cemetery to assess lifetime lead exposure and its social determinants. Using atomic absorption spectroscopy, researchers found that plantation proprietors had significantly higher bone lead levels than laborers, reflecting disparities in exposure likely due to differences

Read More »

Severe iatrogenic bismuth poisoning with bismuth iodoform paraffin paste treated with DMPS chelation

This case report describes a 67-year-old male who suffered from severe iatrogenic bismuth toxicity due to prolonged use of bismuth iodoform paraffin paste (BIPP) for postoperative wound packing following pelvic tumor resection. The patient presented with neuropsychiatric symptoms, and investigations revealed critically elevated bismuth levels in blood (340 µg/L) and

Read More »

The Case For Cadmium and Lead Heavy Metal Screening

This review advocates for routine screening of cadmium and lead due to their widespread exposure from environmental, occupational, dietary, and lifestyle sources. It highlights the association of these metals with various chronic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cancer, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, and lung disease. The article discusses

Read More »

Lead Intoxication

This review discusses the persistent issue of lead intoxication, highlighting its historical prevalence and ongoing relevance. It emphasizes that children are primarily affected through environmental exposure and pica behavior, while adults are at risk due to occupational hazards. Clinical manifestations are often nonspecific, including neuropsychiatric symptoms, gastrointestinal disturbances, and hematological

Read More »