Test library
Blood Lead Level Test
The Lead Levels Blood Test measures the amount of lead in the blood. It is used to screen for and monitor lead exposure, which can affect the nervous system and other organs, especially in children.
Order Lead Levels Blood Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Lead Levels Blood Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $48
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Lead Levels Blood Test measures how much lead is circulating in the blood. Lead is a metal that can enter the body through paint dust, contaminated water, soil, or certain occupations and hobbies. It has no useful role in the body and can affect the nervous system, blood cells, and kidneys. Testing is used to detect exposure, guide monitoring, and follow people whose work or environment puts them at risk.
What this test measures
Lead can be inhaled or swallowed as dust or fumes and then absorbed into the blood. Older paint, plumbing, soil near roads or industry, and some imported products are common sources. Once absorbed, lead can be stored in bone and released over time.
The test measures lead concentration in whole blood, usually reported in micrograms per deciliter. A venous sample is preferred because it is less prone to contamination than a finger-prick sample. Results are compared with public health reference values that vary by age and risk.
Providers order lead testing for children at recommended ages, for people with known or suspected exposure, and for workers in industries such as battery manufacturing, painting, or recycling. Follow-up testing may be used to track trends. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the level and determine whether interventions are needed.
- Blood lead level in micrograms per deciliter
- Whole blood collection verification
- Venous sample confirmation when a screening result is elevated
- Hemoglobin and complete blood count when included
- Zinc protoporphyrin when included
- Iron studies when ordered together
Why people order this test
- Screen children at recommended ages
- Investigate symptoms or sources of possible exposure
- Monitor occupational lead exposure
- Follow a known elevated level over time
- Assess exposure from water, paint, soil, or imported products
- Support public health or workplace requirements
How to prepare
No fasting is required. A venous blood sample is usually collected. Follow the laboratory's instructions, and avoid handling materials that could contaminate the sample before the draw.
Understanding your results
Results are usually available within one to three business days. The report gives a blood lead concentration that is compared with age-specific reference values. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result and recommend any needed follow-up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a blood lead test measure?
It measures the amount of lead in whole blood, which reflects recent and ongoing exposure to the metal.
Who should be tested?
Testing is commonly recommended for young children at set ages, people with known or suspected exposure, and workers in industries that handle lead.
What are common sources of lead?
Sources include older lead-based paint, contaminated dust or soil, some water pipes, certain imported products, and occupational exposures.
Is a finger-prick test enough?
A finger-prick test can be used for screening, but a venous blood sample is preferred for confirmation because it is less likely to be contaminated.
What happens if the level is elevated?
A healthcare provider or public health program will assess the source and may recommend follow-up testing, exposure reduction, or other steps.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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