Lead in whole blood (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of lead present in your blood, which can indicate exposure to lead over time. Lead is a heavy metal that can affect the body’s development and function, especially in children.
["Lead exposure may cause serious health risks, particularly in children."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5933-7
- Short code
- Lead Dial fld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Lead Dial fld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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, headaches, or behavioral changes), if you work in an environment with lead exposure, or if you live in an area with known lead contamination. Children are tested more frequently due to their heightened sensitivity to lead’s effects on development.
What Does the Test Measure?
The test quantifies the total mass of lead in your blood, measured in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). Higher levels may suggest recent or ongoing exposure to lead sources like paint, dust, or contaminated water.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using a specialized method to measure lead concentration.
What Are Common Causes of Elevated Lead Levels?
Exposure to lead can come from old paint (especially in homes built before 1978), lead-contaminated water, lead pipes, or certain hobbies (e.g., soldering, model building). Children may ingest lead from dust, chips of lead paint, or contaminated food.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Chronic exposure to lead can cause long-term damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive health. In children, even low levels may impair cognitive development, learning, and behavior. Acute exposure can lead to severe symptoms like seizures, coma, or organ failure. Regular monitoring is recommended for high-risk individuals.
Short name
Blood Lead Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test if I have a history of lead exposure?
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
Can I take anything to prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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