A child is brought with drowsiness, decreased deep tendon reflexes and seizures. On examination the child has a line on gums. There is history of constipation. Which will be most appropriate drug that should be used in this child -

Ans. is 'a' i.e., EDTA o Clinical features of child suggest the diagnosis of lead poisoning with encephalopathy. Chelation therapy for lead poisoning ? o Guidelines for selecting children for chelation in lead poisoning are based on blood lead level. o Four drugs are available-DMSA, EDTA, Penicillamine, BAL. o DMSA and penicillamine can be given orally while EDTA and BAL can only be administered parenterally. o Children with blood lead levels between 44 and 70 should be treated with a single drug. Those with blood levels of 70 or greater require 2 drug treatment. EDTA in combination with either DMSA or BAL for those without encephalopathy. EDTA and BAL for those with encephalopathy.