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.

Where does your number land?

Drag to your own Lead result.

Educational only, not a diagnosis. Ranges vary by laboratory. See which panel includes Lead.

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.

Common questions

Questions people ask about Lead

What is Lead?

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

Why is Lead measured?

It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.

How is Lead tested?

It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. Lead is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

What should I do with my Lead result?

Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.

Not sure which panel is right for you?

Lead is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.

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.

Find the right panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
Back to all biomarkers

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.

Weight-loss medication disclaimer

OPTML offers compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide, prescribed and overseen by U.S.-licensed physicians. Compounded drug products are not approved or evaluated for safety, effectiveness, or quality by the FDA. OPTML is not associated with, endorsed by, or affiliated with the manufacturers of FDA-approved branded weight-loss medications, and does not sell or supply those branded products. Anyone interested in an FDA-approved branded medication should consult a licensed healthcare provider or pharmacist. Individual results vary; no specific result is promised, and weight management requires ongoing medical guidance.

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