Neuromuscular manifestations of lead poisoning in opium and herbal users in Iran

Abstract

Opium sale is prohibited in Iran, and sellers mix it with lead to increase the weight. Herein, we describe neuromuscular findings in nine patients who developed lead poisoning due to opium/drug consumption. The mean age of patients was 53 +/- 3.5 years and their mean blood lead level was 122.6 +/- 20.8 mu g/dL. Most of the patients had an acute/subacute course presenting as axonal or demyelinating sensorimotor polyneuropathy, motor neuron disease, and multiple mononeuropathies with favorable response to the chelation therapy. Lead poisoning should be considered in patients with a history of opium use and neuromuscular symptoms. (C) 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.