Lead
Also known as: Blood lead test; Blood lead level; BLL
Formal name: Lead, blood
Related tests: Zinc protoporphyrin; Heavy Metals
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To screen for excessive exposure to lead
When to Get Tested?
At 1 and 2 years of age as part of a child lead screening program; children considered to be at risk may need additional testing from 18 months to 6 years of age; when your child lives in a house built prior to 1978; when your occupation or hobby may expose you or your family to lead; when you have symptoms suggesting lead poisoning
Sample Required?
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm or by fingerstick for infants and children
Test Preparation Needed?
None
