Lead Testing
Lead exposure remains a major health concern in the U.S., driving the need for accurate and convenient testing solutions. Capitainer cards can be used for lead testing, supporting reliable sample collection for standardized laboratory analysis. Reliable lead analysis helps laboratories support early intervention and deliver high-quality, consistent patient care.
Why test blood lead levels?
The CDC currently uses a blood lead reference value (BLRV) of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) to identify children with blood lead levels higher than most, prompting follow-up actions such as education, environmental assessment, and repeat testing.
For adults, especially workers exposed to lead, the Adult Blood Lead Epidemiology and Surveillance (ABLES) program uses 5 µg/dL as the threshold for elevated Blood Lead Levels (BLLs). Pregnant individuals should avoid BLLs above 3.5–5 µg/dL due to risks to fetal development.
Application Note
This document presents a comprehensive overview of both published and unpublished evidence, along with protocols for Lead Testing using Capitainer sampling cards. It outlines how the testing process can be implemented across various standard clinical chemistry platforms and highlights key considerations and precautions that must be taken into account.
