Two cases of acute lead poisoning due to occupational exposure to lead.
METHODS
We experienced two cases of acute lead poisoning due to occupational exposure to lead. The patients were engaged in stripping off antirust compounds including Pb from a bridge and re-painting it at the same work place. Both patients exhibited colic, arthralgia, and anemia. Blood lead levels were 73.1 microg/dl and 96.3 microg/dl. Intravenous CaEDTA chelation therapy was therefore performed. After chelation, blood lead levels decreased and symptoms gradually disappeared.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the patients were working with protective equipment, the workplace was in the mountains and there was no water for washing. The patients were thus unable to washing their hands and faces. We assume that they swallowed lead dust left on their hands and faces when they removed their clothing, and believe that this poisoning occurred due to lack of knowledge sufficient for protection.
Ogawa
Masanori
M
Tokyo Rosai Hospital, Occupational Poisoning Center, Tokyo, Japan. masa-oga@tokyoh.rofuku.go.jp
Nakajima
Yoshiaki
Y
Kubota
Ryuichi
R
Endo
Yoko
Y
D000328:Adult; D002614:Chelating Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004492:Edetic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D011482:Protective Devices; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D002614:Chelating Agents; D004492:Edetic Acid