Fetal lead exposure: Encephalopathy in a child

It is well known that lead exposure in the early period of pre pregnancy and antenatal life leads to serious health complications. In this case report, a five month old child who was suffering from encephalopathy was finally confirmed a victim of lead exposure, the source being the environment and the family. We report this case with complete clinical investigation including blood lead analysis. This case report highlights the various ways in which lead may accumulate in the body. It is also aimed at increasing awareness regarding the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of lead toxicity. The literature survey done reveals that this is the youngest age at which lead toxicity has been documented in India.