Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Lead Poisoning: Diagnostic Challenges and Management Complexities

Abstract

Author Contributions ADW conceptualized and designed the study, assisted in analyzing and interpreting the data, drafted the initial manuscript, assisted in collection and assembly of the article, participated in critical revision of the article for important intellectual content. MH assisted in analyzing and interpreting the data and prior literature, assisted in drafting the article, provided administrative and logistical support for the study, participated in critical revision of the article for important intellectual content. BS assisted in analyzing and interpreting the data and background research articles, assisted in drafting the article, participated in critical revision of the article for important intellectual content. All authors approved the final manuscript as submitted and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

(Ascorb)ing Pb Neurotoxicity in the Developing Brain

“…Conclusively, while this means that Pb neurotoxicity in children is dependent on a number of environmental factors (and genetic factors to some extent), considerable efforts are needed to reduce the risk of exposure at several levels [ 14 , 28 , 36 , 58 , 59 ]. Legislative measures, particularly concerning leaded gasoline, have indeed aided in reducing the incidences of Pb exposure [ 60 , 61 , 62 ].…”

“…The incidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children is also often associated with early-life Pb exposure and elevations in BLLs [ 28 , 58 , 99 ]. In fact, the degree of autism severity may strongly correlate with Pb levels in hair and nail samples [ 100 ].…”

“…This issue is especially important for cases where the subjects cannot be moved away from the sources of poisoning. Moreover, the use of chelators is not recommended in children, particularly for mild Pb exposure, which comprises majority of the cases [ 58 , 234 ]. In fact, chelation therapy in Pb-exposed children has not shown any benefits in reducing BLLs over time or stimulating cognitive, behavioral, and neuromotor attributes [ 24 , 238 , 239 ].…”

Community Engagement and Outreach Programs for Lead Prevention in Mississippi

“…A Community Advisory Board (CAB) comprising of representatives from each partner organization and the investigators met quarterly to discuss on strategies and monitor progresses. and behavioral abnormalities [9,10], hearing and speech problems [10,11], deficits in cognitive function [12], sleep deficits [13], attention deficiencies, and underperformance in school [13].…”

“…Lead toxicity affects almost every organ system of the human body [6]. Long-term exposure to lead can seriously harm a child's health and cause well-documented adverse effects including neurological damage [7], retarded growth and development [8], learning and behavioral abnormalities [9,10], hearing and speech problems [10,11], deficits in cognitive function [12], sleep deficits [13], attention deficiencies, and underperformance in school [13]. The Healthy People 2020 [14] and the proposed Healthy People 2030 objectives [15] established the nation's strategy for improving the health and well-being of all citizens, and emphasized to reduce blood lead level in children aged 1-5 years.…”