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Lead (Blood) Concentration, Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of lead in your blood, which helps assess exposure to this heavy metal that can affect your health, especially in children.

Quick summary

["Blood lead levels indicate potential exposure to lead, which may cause health risks, particularly in children."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
65300-6
Short code
Don't like lead groups PhenX
Synonyms
Don't like lead groups PhenX
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
phenx
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of lead poisoning (such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or behavioral changes), live in an area with known lead exposure, or if you work in an occupation involving lead. Children are tested more frequently due to higher sensitivity to lead’s effects on development.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re a child, the process is usually quick and painless, and you might be offered a small treat afterward to help with the discomfort.

What to Expect During the Test

The blood sample is collected in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis. The test itself takes only a few minutes, but results may take several days to weeks, depending on lab processing times.

What the Results Mean

High levels of lead in blood can indicate exposure to lead sources like contaminated paint, dust, or water. Very low levels may not show symptoms, but repeated testing is recommended for ongoing monitoring.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Blood Lead Level

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of High Lead Levels?
Common sources include lead-based paint in older homes, lead-contaminated water, certain hobbies (e.g., soldering, pottery), or exposure in workplaces like battery recycling or construction.
How Does Lead Affect Health?
Lead can harm the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive health. In children, it may cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, or behavioral issues. In adults, it can contribute to high blood pressure or anemia.
How Is Lead Exposure Prevented?
Avoiding lead exposure involves using lead-safe practices (e.g., sealing old paint, using filtered water), wearing protective gear in high-risk jobs, and regular monitoring for those at higher risk.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy