Saturnism or lead poisoning is seen where lead is present in blood at high levels. If severe enough it may cause irreversible nervous system damage along with serious toxicity to other body organs and systems. Lead is being by humans for thousand years and is part of various products like paints and toys. Lead if ingested at high levels due to acute or chronic exposure to such products may lead to symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, mood swings, irritability, lack of proper sleep, hyperactivity, headache, and diarrhea and if severe enough may even lead to death.

Children are particularly at risk to any poisoning including lead because of their immature defense system and organs particular important for detoxification like liver. Children if exposed to high levels of lead either through acute ingestion or by chronic exposure like toys containing lead may have spectrum of ill health effects like behavioral problems, cognitive and learning difficulties, and physical disabilities. The toxic dose for children proposed by CDC is about 10 ug/dl, however, the effects of lead below the level of 10 ug/dl is not fully understood but many researchers have proposed that it is equally dangerous to children. (more…)