Test Overview This test measures the amount of lead in a person's blood. Lead is a poisonous (toxic) metal that can damage the brain and other parts of the body. A lead test may be done on blood taken from the vein, a finger (finger stick), or the heel (heel stick).
A person can be exposed to lead:
By eating or drinking lead-contaminated foods, water, or other material (such as paint chips). By breathing dust or smoke containing lead. Through skin contact with lead. There is no safe age to be exposed to lead. A pregnant woman who is exposed to lead can pass it to her baby (fetus
Why It Is Done
Testing for lead is done to:
Diagnose lead poisoning. See how well treatment for lead poisoning is working. Look for lead poisoning in people who work with lead or lead products or who live in places where the chance of poisoning is high, such as in a large city. Check for the amount of lead in people who live with or play with children who have lead poisoning. How To Prepare
In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are using any natural health products. Load More Information about Lead (Pb) Test
How It Is Done
Blood sample from a heel stick A heel stick is used to get a blood sample from a baby. The baby's heel is poked, and several drops of blood are collected. Your baby may have a tiny bruise where the heel was poked.
Blood sample from a vein A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
Watch How It Feels
Blood sample from a heel stick A brief pain, like a sting or a pinch, is usually felt when the lancet punctures the skin. Your baby may feel a little discomfort with the skin puncture.
Blood sample from a vein When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
Risks
Heel stick There is very little risk of a problem from a heel stick. Your baby may get a small bruise at the puncture site.
Blood test There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
Results
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
Results are usually available within 1 week.
Your doctor will likely want to do more evaluation and another blood lead level test if:
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: April 30, 2024
