Lead Source Attribution by Stable Isotope Analysis in Child Risk Assessment Investigations

Lead isotope analysis (LIA) is a promising technique for identifying potential sources of lead exposure among children with lead poisoning that are not revealed via traditional lead risk assessment methods. A total of six Wisconsin children with blood lead levels (BLLs) >= 10 mu g/dl were included in this case series. Lead isotope ratios from blood and environmental samples were analyzed using a multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) to determine exposure source. LIA identified likely sources of lead poisoning: lead-based paint, dust, imported spices, ceremonial objects, or mixtures of these sources. LIA both corroborated findings from standard lead risk assessment and identified novel sources. LIA using high-precision MC-ICP-MS can identify and exclude sources of exposure when interpreted alongside traditional lead risk assessment approaches. Furthermore, LIA can serve as a useful tool in identifying and eliminating lead exposures in poisoning cases, particularly when traditional methods fail to identify the likely cause.