title: Lead poisoning associated with use of litargirio--Rhode Island, 2003.
abstract: Lead can damage the neurologic, hematologic, and renal systems. Deteriorated leaded paint in older housing remains the most common source of lead exposure for children in the United States; however, other lead sources increasingly are recognized, particularly among certain racial/ethnic populations. In 2003, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recognized litargirio (also known as litharge or lead monoxide), a yellow or peach-colored powder used as an antiperspirant/deodorant and a folk remedy in the Hispanic community, as a potential source of lead exposure for Hispanic children. This report summarizes a case investigation of elevated blood lead levels (BLLs > or =10 microg/dL) associated with litargirio use among two siblings in Rhode Island, the public health action taken, and a survey of parents/guardians in three pediatric clinics in Providence, Rhode Island, to assess litargirio use. Findings underscore the importance of follow-up of elevated BLLs and thorough investigation to identify all lead sources.
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004200:Diseases in Twins; D004293:Dominican Republic / Q000208:ethnology; D005260:Female; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007854:Lead; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D008519:Medicine, Traditional; D010087:Oxides; D012237:Rhode Island / Q000453:epidemiology
chemical_list: D010087:Oxides; D007854:Lead; C047365:lead oxide