HRMS + ICP-MS
Lead (Pb)
Also known as: Plumbum
Overview
A cumulative neurotoxic heavy metal with no known safe level of exposure. Lead accumulates intracellularly in PBMCs, making PBMC-based testing far more sensitive than serum testing alone.
Primary Sources
Old paint, contaminated water pipes, leaded gasoline residues, industrial emissions, certain ceramics and cosmetics.
Health Effects
Neurotoxicity, cognitive impairment, hypertension, renal damage, anemia, developmental delays in children.
Detection Method
This toxin is detected and quantified using HRMS + ICP-MS analysis of isolated PBMCs. The intracellular accumulation of this compound in lymphocytes and monocytes provides a more accurate reflection of chronic systemic burden than conventional serum or urine testing.