The efficacy of chelation therapy and factors influencing mortality in lead intoxicated petrol sniffers

Abstract

Airway maintenance and management are crucial for survival in these patients. In the short-term, parenteral chelation was effective in mobilising lead for excretion and reducing blood lead in encephalopathic petrol sniffers and was comparable to cases of inorganic lead intoxication. However, as in the treatment of inorganic lead intoxication, the long-term efficacy of chelation for petrol sniffers remains controversial. Prevention strategies against petrol sniffing at a community level are recommended.