Lead polyneuropathy of nonindustrial origin

A case of a subacute, distal, symmetrical polyneuropathy in a housewife is reported. The fact that the polyneuropathy affected almost only the motor fibers led us to suspect an exogenous intoxication. Blood lead level and the urinary excretion of lead after intravenous EDTA very high. The blood lead levels were normal in the husband and children oif the patient. A glazed cup used only by the patient to keep tea with lemon juice was found to release toxic amounts of lead with acidic solutions. The manufacturer of the cup was not identified by the enquiring authorities and therefore almost certainly other lead-releasing cups are still in use. The importance of suspecting lead intoxication in individuals not professionally exposed is stressed.