Exposure to lead: Neuropsychiatric and Behavioral Consequences

Abstract

In virtually every type of exposure to lead, considering the short term or long term in high or low concentrations, the critical target organ is always the brain, encouraging signs and symptoms such as headache, memory loss, loss of concentration and attention in tasks occurring, changes in mood, with irritability, depression, insomnia (or excessive sleepiness). Several studies have shown evidence that, even at relatively low exposure levels, lead (Pb) was detected associated with deficits in cognitive functions, intellectual and executive functioning, personality disorder like antisocial behavior and attention-deficit hyperactivity deficit disorder. Other studies were able to demonstrate that reducing the levels of exposure to Pb can be responsible for reducing levels of impulsivity, aggression and crime among adolescents.Finally evidence supporting the hypothesis that exposure to Pb can disrupt the development of the central nervous system and are associated with schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. Some studies that reported a relationship between structure-function and psychopathology are are also discussed in this review.