Orthopedic Manifestations of Lead Toxicity

Given the recent news regarding the water supply in Flint, Michigan, lead toxicity has become an increasingly important topic in health care. Lead toxicity can have a widespread effect on the human body. Because lead has a significant effect on mineralized tissue such as bone, the purpose of this review was to identify and analyze the orthopedic manifestations of lead poisoning. The effects of lead at the cellular level, on the hematopoietic system, in osteoporosis, and in pediatric patients are discussed. Possible treatment options and recommendations for further monitoring are presented. [Orthopedics. 2020;43(4):e202-e207.].