Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, infantile autism, and elevated blood-lead: a possible relationship.
This case involves a 4 1/2-year-old boy diagnosed with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and an elevated blood-lead level of 42 mcg/dl. The child was treated for the elevated blood-lead with the chelating agent succimer. The parents reported a decrease in repetitive behaviors while on succimer with a regression to previous symptoms when medication was discontinued. Also seen was a decrease of hyperactive behavior while being treated with succimer. This article explores the interaction and possible casual relationship of an elevated blood-lead, autism, and ADHD as well as treatment of the behavioral symptoms.
Eppright
T D
TD
Deparment of Psychiatry and Neurology, University of Missouri-Columbia, 65212
Sanfacon
J A
JA
Horwitz
E A
EA
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000097:blood / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000097:blood / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007854:Lead / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D008297:Male
D007854:Lead