LEAD – “Lead”

Update to reference range and message.

Reference Range:

COMPONENT                          REFERENCE INTERVAL
Lead, Whole Blood                    < 6 years: <3.5 µg/dL

In 2021, CDC revised the blood lead reference level for
children ages 1-5 years to less than 3.5 ug/dL. Children
with levels at or above this value represent those at the
top 2.5% of blood levels.

CDC recommendations for clinical follow up and lead level
monitoring may vary depending on initial measured lead level
and the child’s age. Local and state health departments also
may have different recommendations for monitoring and clinical
follow up. Please consult your local or state health department,
or the CDC’s website regarding monitoring of lead levels in
children:

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/acclpp/actions_blls.html

COMPONENT                           REFERENCE INTERVAL
Lead, Whole Blood                       >= 6 years: < 5.0 µg/dL

CDC recommendations for clinical follow up and lead level
monitoring may vary depending on initial measured lead level
and the patient’s age. Local and state health departments
also may have different recommendations for monitoring and
clinical follow up. Please consult your local or state
health department, or the CDC’s website regarding monitoring
of lead levels in adults:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/ables/pdfs/