Saturnine curse: a history of lead poisoning

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1985 · South. Med. J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/00007611-198501000-00013· OSTI ID:5366014

Green, D W

Over the past ten years there has been increasing recognition of subacute and chronic lead poisoning and a growing awareness of its pathophysiology and clinical effects. Besides the classic manifestations of abdominal colic, seizures, and anemia progressing to gout, renal disease, and neuropathy, more subtle manifestations are now being increasingly recognized, such as the development of hypertension, neurobehavioral changes, reproductive and endocrine abnormalities, a possible role in carcinogenesis, and an overall increase in morbidity and mortality. Lead was one of the seven metals of antiquity, and it has accompanied the Eurasian and American civilizations since their beginnings. Lead is an extremely pernicious metal with a multitude of adverse effects. The recurring nature of lead poisoning throughout the development of civilization can truly be referred to as the saturnine curse. 16 references.

• Research Organization: Medical Univ. of South Carolina, Charleston
• OSTI ID: 5366014
• Journal Information: South. Med. J.; (United States), Vol. 78:1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
LEAD
HEALTH HAZARDS
TOXICITY
BEHAVIOR
CHRONIC EXPOSURE
ENDOCRINE DISEASES
HYPERTENSION
REPRODUCTIVE DISORDERS
SYMPTOMS
UROGENITAL SYSTEM DISEASES
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
DISEASES
ELEMENTS
HAZARDS
METALS
VASCULAR DISEASES
560306* - Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology- Man- (-1987)