ABSTRACT
Lead is a ubiquitous heavy metal, and its use can be traced back to the Roman empire. The softness and malleability of lead is the reason for its extensive use in a variety of products, including gasoline and paints. However, the realization of the toxic effects of lead to the human system has resulted in aggressive testing of blood lead levels and phasing out the use of lead in several products. Lead can adversely affect the neurological, cardiovascular, and hematopoietic system in addition to causing end-organ damage to the kidney and lungs. Because lead accumulates in the bones and soft tissues for over decades, treating chronic lead toxicity is challenging. Metal chelators such as EDTA have been useful in treating acute lead toxicity.
