Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, infantile autism, and elevated blood-lead: a possible relationship
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T D Eppright1, J A Sanfacon, E A Horwitz
1Deparment of Psychiatry and Neurology, University of Missouri-Columbia, 65212
Insights
This case study highlights how succimer treatment for high blood-lead levels in a child with autism and ADHD reduced behavioral symptoms. Symptoms returned upon discontinuation, suggesting a link between lead exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Pediatric medicine
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Elevated blood-lead levels (BLLs) are associated with various adverse health outcomes, including neurodevelopmental deficits.
- The potential interaction between lead toxicity and pre-existing neurodevelopmental disorders requires further investigation.
Observation:
- A 4 1/2-year-old boy diagnosed with ASD and ADHD presented with an elevated blood-lead level of 42 mcg/dl.
- The child received succimer, a chelating agent, for lead detoxification.
- Parents observed a significant decrease in repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity during succimer treatment.
Findings:
- Succimer treatment correlated with a reduction in autistic and hyperactive behaviors.
- Discontinuation of succimer led to a regression of these behavioral improvements.
- These observations suggest a potential causal relationship between elevated BLLs and the exacerbation of behavioral symptoms in children with ASD and ADHD.
Implications:
- Chelation therapy may offer a therapeutic avenue for managing specific behavioral symptoms in children with co-occurring lead toxicity and neurodevelopmental disorders.
- This case underscores the importance of screening for environmental toxins like lead in children with unexplained or worsening behavioral issues.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying lead's impact on neurodevelopmental pathways and behavioral regulation.
Abstract:
This case involves a 4 1/2-year-old boy diagnosed with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and an elevated blood-lead level of 42 mcg/dl. The child was treated for the elevated blood-lead with the chelating agent succimer. The parents reported a decrease in repetitive behaviors while on succimer with a regression to previous symptoms when medication was discontinued. Also seen was a decrease of hyperactive behavior while being treated with succimer. This article explores the interaction and possible casual relationship of an elevated blood-lead, autism, and ADHD as well as treatment of the behavioral symptoms.