Lead poisoning

Case contributed by Ryan Thibodeau
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

History of pica. Presenting with microcytic anemia on labs associated with fatigue. Elevated lead levels.

Patient Data

Age: 2 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

There is a moderate amount of stool throughout the colon. There are small, radioopaque densities overlying the splenic flexure and rectosigmoid col

Radiograph 3 days later.

x-ray

There has been interval improvement in the underlying constipation with increased conspicuity of radiopaque densities within the right colon.

Case Discussion

This is a case of lead poisoning. Upon further review, it was found that the patient lives in an older home. Given the labs, the radiopaque densities are highly suggestive of lead paint chips. The patient was admitted for chelation and monitoring for passage of the lead.

Co-author:
Christopher Talone
Travis Bevington, MD

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