Metals system

Lead

Pb

A toxic heavy metal — there is no known safe level.

What is it

Lead — in plain English.

Lead is a toxic heavy metal with no known safe level. Sources include old paint, soil, water pipes, and certain occupational exposures.

Why it's measured

What Pb can reveal.

Lead exposure has been associated with cognitive, cardiovascular, and renal effects across published research, even at low levels.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

< 5 μg/dL

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Pb — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with cognitive, cardiovascular, and renal effects across research literature.

Lower

Generally considered favorable.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When Pb is typically run.

Measured when exposure is suspected or in comprehensive heavy metal screening.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Pb.

Measured in

Pb is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.