Lead Blood Test

Monitor exposure to lead.

Description

The lead blood test is used to evaluate the concentration of lead in a patient’s blood. It is generally used when there is reason to suspect a high level of lead in the blood. It is also used to help assess the effectiveness of treatments to confirm improvement over time. Health care providers are encouraged to screen children at least once at two years of age and preferably also at one year of age if they are eligible for Medicaid. Adult workers who work in industries known to expose them to lead such as smelting factories, auto repair, and construction are generally candidates for lead blood testing. Lead blood testing may also be used if patients experience symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, nausea, chronic stomach irritation, tremors, and weight loss. Children may not experience these symptoms, which is why it is important to test them early on.