Called also plumbism and saturnism. It became less frequent as paints composed of other chemicals were substituted for lead-based paints and as plastic toys replaced lead ones. Other symptoms may be mental depression and, in children, irritability and convulsions. In addition to the poisoning, the anemia and weight loss must also be treated, usually by providing an adequate diet. Symptoms are a metallic taste in the mouth, vomiting, bloody or black diarrhea, and muscle cramps.
Diagnosis is made by examination of the blood and urine.
Immediate removal of unabsorbed lead in the intestinal tract through the administration of mild saline cathartics and enemas. EDTA is given and in most cases measures must be taken to reduce the increased intracranial pressure that accompanies acute lead poisoning. An awareness of the prevalence of lead poisoning among children of preschool age who live in poorly maintained housing has led to neighborhood screening surveys in high-risk areas. An important aspect of prevention of lead poisoning is determination of sources of lead in the environment and efforts to remove them. Sources include peeling paint from window sills, walls, floors, and bannisters, and from soil around old houses that have shed exterior paint through the years.