Treatment of Lead Poisoning in a Child with Blood Lead Level Between 45 and 70 µg/dL

This protocol covers the management of lead poisoning in children under 18 years of age whose measured blood lead level falls between 45 and 70 µg/dL — a range that requires prompt, structured intervention to reduce lead burden.

Clinical Scenario

The patient is a child (under 18 years) with confirmed elevated blood lead: 45–70 µg/dL. This level indicates significant exposure and warrants active treatment beyond environmental mitigation alone.

Treatment Approach

Management in this blood lead range centres on a chelation-based strategy. The complete regimen — including agent, route, and monitoring requirements — is specified in the full protocol.

Treatment Goals

The objectives are symptom improvement and achievement of acceptable blood lead levels.

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References

Children with blood lead levels between 45 and 70 µg/dL should undergo chelation, usually with oral succimer; those with encephalopathy or with blood lead levels in excess of 70 µg/dL should be admitted to the hospital for parenteral therapy with BAL and EDTA.
Once initiated, chelation therapy should be continued until symptoms improve and acceptable blood lead levels are achieved.

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