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[Severe lead poisoning caused by an ingested fishing weight]
M Lászlóffy1, N Keszei, T Kákosy
1Országos Munka-és Uzemegészségügyi Intézet, Budapest.
Orvosi Hetilap
|May 22, 1998
Summary
Accidental ingestion of a fishing weight led to severe lead poisoning and liver damage in a teenager. Prompt surgical removal and chelation therapy resulted in full recovery, highlighting the need for rapid intervention.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Lead poisoning can occur from accidental ingestion of lead-containing foreign bodies.
- Gastrointestinal foreign bodies in adolescents can lead to severe systemic toxicity.
- Liver damage and encephalopathy are potential severe complications of acute lead intoxication.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old male presented with symptoms of severe lead poisoning after ingesting a fishing weight.
- The patient exhibited signs of liver damage and encephalopathy, consistent with acute, high-level lead absorption.
- Initial attempts at endoscopic removal of the foreign body were unsuccessful.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed toxic liver lesions attributed to rapid lead absorption.
- Gastrotomy was required for foreign body removal, followed by intravenous calcium disodium edetate (CaNa2EDTA) chelation therapy.
- Complete clinical and laboratory recovery was achieved post-treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical importance of prompt removal of retained lead-containing foreign bodies from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Early intervention is crucial to prevent severe organ damage, including hepatic and neurological complications.
- Physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for lead poisoning in cases of ingested foreign bodies, especially in pediatric and adolescent patients.