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Lead in Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of lead in your blood, which can help identify exposure to this heavy metal.

Quick summary

["A blood lead test helps check for potential exposure to lead, which may affect your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9861-6
Short code
Style Pacemaker lead EKG
Synonyms
Style Pacemaker lead EKG
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or abdominal pain, or if you’ve been exposed to lead—common in certain jobs, living in older homes, or consuming contaminated foods/water.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal lead levels may indicate exposure, which can harm your nervous system, kidneys, or developing bones. Very high levels can cause severe symptoms quickly.

Common Causes of Elevated Lead Levels

Lead exposure can come from dust in older homes, contaminated water, certain hobbies (e.g., soldering), or occupational settings like construction or battery recycling.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Lead in the blood is a marker for exposure, not a direct cause of disease. Chronic exposure over time may lead to long-term health risks, while acute exposure can cause immediate symptoms.

Short name

Lead Level (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor want to check my lead levels again?
If your initial lead level is elevated, follow-up tests may be needed to monitor changes, especially if you’re in a high-risk group (e.g., children, workers, or residents of older homes).
What are the typical reference ranges for lead levels?
Reference ranges vary by age and lab. For adults, levels below 10 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) are usually considered normal, but guidelines may differ by country or lab.
How can I reduce my risk of lead exposure?
Avoid touching your mouth after handling lead-containing materials, use lead-safe cleaning practices, drink filtered water, and consult your doctor if you suspect exposure.
  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