Lead toxicity from Ayurvedic medications: a case report

Abstract

Background: Lead toxicity in adults is rare and often presents with vague symptoms leading to diagnostic uncertainty. Occupational exposure can guide the clinician toward the correct diagnosis, but when no exposure is identified, there may be a delay in identifying the condition. Case Presentation: We present a case of lead poisoning in a patient using Ayurvedic medicines. Ayurvedic medicine is a formal traditional medical system in India and South Asia with traditions dating back over 3000 years. Ayurvedic medications, a component of Ayurvedic practice, are considered natural but can contain heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic. Conclusion: Ayurvedic medications are an infrequent cause of lead poisoning, but this may increase as nontraditional, and natural medicines become more popular. Clinicians should consider the possibility of lead poisoning in patients who have used Ayurvedic medications and present with nonspecific symptoms.