Intoxication Camouflaged: Lesson Learnt. An Interesting Case of Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning is a common occupational health hazard and may lead to permanent neurological sequelae or even death. However, there is an emerging trend of new forms of non-occupational lead poisoning which is challenging to diagnose. We report a case of a 40 y/o male who presented with chronic lead neurotoxicity occuring after consumption of over-thecounter ayurvedic medication. While exploring medication for its content, it was discovered that this abused drug had Papaver somniferum (opium) in the alarmingly high ratio of 12:1. A review of literature demonstrated that Lead is usually added to opium during its preparation either as an ingredient or as an adulterant to increase opium weight in its trading for profitability. Additionally, improvement in the neurological syndrome after chelation therapy with D-penicillamine further confirmed that Lead was the culprit responsible for this unusual presentation.