The effect of succimer therapy in lead intoxication using postural balance as a measure: a case study in a nine year old child

Neurotoxicology. 1998 Feb;19(1):57-64.

Abstract

Postural balance testing was used as a measure of the effect of therapy on a 9 year old boy with high lead levels. Following therapy with CaEDTA and succimer, the patient's postural sway responses were comparable to a low-lead (< 10 micrograms/dL) comparison group for 3 out of 4 tests which rely relatively less on the higher centers for balance. This improvement in postural balance may be attributable to the combined influence of pharmacologic and age associated maturational effects. This case study provides suggestive evidence that while chelation therapy can reduce PbB levels quickly, it can also modify gross neuromotor function manifested by postural balance characteristics.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Child
  • Dimercaprol / therapeutic use
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Edetic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Lead Poisoning / drug therapy*
  • Lead Poisoning / physiopathology*
  • Male
  • Patient Compliance
  • Postural Balance / drug effects*
  • Succimer / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Dimercaprol
  • Edetic Acid
  • Succimer