This population-based cohort study utilized data from 14,289 adults in NHANES III (1988–1994) with mortality follow-up through 2011 to evaluate the relationship between low blood lead levels and long-term mortality. The analysis revealed that individuals with blood lead levels between 1.0 and 6.7 μg/dL faced significantly higher risks of all-cause
This critical review assesses the clinical validity of provoked challenge urine testing for detecting heavy metal exposure. The authors outline key issues with the test, including lack of standardization in chelator type, dosing, and urine collection timing. It highlights how comparisons are often made to unvalidated reference ranges, resulting in
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
