Lead polyneuropathies

Lead paresis is an example of a predominant lesion of the motor fibers of peripheral nerves. The conditions for their occurrence are found in lead mines, in the smelting of lead, in pottery and printing industries, in the manufacture of rubber shoes, batteries, when storing food in pottery with a high content of lead in the glaze, and when taking water in contact with lead. Lead paresis affects mainly the hands. This is preceded by a period of asthenization , sometimes accompanied by lead colic and the presence of a dark blue border along the edge of the gums. The extensors of the hand, innervated by the radial nerve, mainly weaken. The hands hang down, on the extensor surface of the forearm, the muscles are hypotrophic . Less commonly involved are the small muscles of the hand, innervated by the ulnar and median nerves. When the process spreads to the legs, the peroneal nerve is usually affected. Sometimes abducent or other cranial nerves suffer. Regression of the disease drags on for months, and sometimes years, as lead is eliminated from the body slowly. Currently, “lead paralysis” is a rare casuistry. 

local_offerevent_note October 1, 2019

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