Lead (Plumbus) Mass Concentration in Whole Blood
This test measures the amount of lead in your blood, which can help detect exposure to this heavy metal that may harm your body.
["Lead exposure can be dangerous, especially in children, and this test helps monitor it."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7506-9
- Short code
- M plumbeus IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- M plumbeus IgE Qn
- 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 (like headaches, nausea, or behavioral changes), if you work in an environment with lead exposure, or if you live in an area with high lead levels in the water or environment. Children are tested more often due to higher sensitivity to lead’s effects.
What Does a High or Low Result Mean?
High levels of lead in the blood can indicate exposure to lead, which may cause developmental issues in children, damage to the nervous system, or other health problems. Low levels may not show symptoms but are still important to monitor, especially in vulnerable groups.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to measure lead concentration using specialized laboratory techniques.
What Are Common Causes of Lead Exposure?
Lead exposure can come from contaminated food, water, dust, or products like old paint, batteries, or certain hobbies (e.g., soldering). Children often ingest lead from toys, dust, or chipped paint.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lead exposure can cause serious health issues, including developmental delays in children, damage to the brain and kidneys, and long-term effects on the heart and bones. Chronic exposure may also lead to anemia or high blood pressure. Early detection through testing is key to preventing harm.
Short name
Lead Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
Why might my child need this test?
How often should I get this test?
What should I do if my test results are high?
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