Short-term renal findings during CaNa₂EDTA chelation in workers with occupational lead exposure: Proteinuria,...

Occupational lead exposure may cause renal toxicity; however, the renal effects of calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (CaNa₂EDTA) chelation therapy remain unclear. This study evaluated short-term renal function changes and urinary findings in workers undergoing CaNa₂EDTA chelation for occupational lead exposure.

This retrospective study included 245 male workers with occupational lead exposure who received CaNa₂EDTA chelation therapy between January 2022 and January 2026. Urinary protein, albumin, and 24-hour urinary lead excretion were assessed on day 3, while post-treatment blood lead levels and renal function parameters were assessed on day 6.

Blood lead levels significantly decreased after chelation therapy (p < 0.001). Urea levels decreased, whereas serum creatinine levels increased slightly and eGFR values declined significantly (all p < 0.001). Proteinuria and albuminuria were detected in 40.8% and 28.2% of patients, respectively. Employment in other occupational sectors was associated with higher odds of proteinuria, but not albuminuria, after adjustment.

CaNa₂EDTA effectively reduced blood lead levels, while small changes in renal function and urinary abnormalities were observed during treatment; however, these findings cannot be attributed specifically to chelation therapy.