Investigation of the Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Patients Referred to Baqiyatallah Hospital, Tehran, Iran in 2016-2017

Abstract

Background Lead poisoning is one of the most important problems worldwide, caused by occupational poisoning and opioid addiction. Materials and methods This descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study was performed among patients with lead poisoning, who were referred to Baqiyatallah Hospital of Tehran, Iran during 2016-2017. Results The study population consisted of 200 patients, including 32 females (14%) and 168 males (86%), who were referred to the Poisoning Department of Baqiyatallah Hospital during 2016-2017. The blood lead level of patients ranged from 9μg/dL to 180μg/dL. Overall, 18% of patients suffered from muscular weakness (peripheral neuropathy), and 95% had a history of oral opioid use. Conclusion Based on the findings, lead poisoning should be taken into account in opioid addicts, experiencing abdominal pain and constipation. Considering the high rate of poisoning following the oral use of opioids, it is recommended to refer addicts to addiction treatment clinics and provide them with psychiatric counseling. Citation: Mesri M, Valizadegan G, Najari F, Baradaran I, Najari D (2019) Investigation of the Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Patients Referred to Baqiyatallah Hospital, Tehran, Iran in 2016-2017. J Toxicol Cur Res 3: 006.