Measurement of Lead Concentration in the Blood of Patients Undergoing Appendectomy and Cholecystectomy

Abstract

Background and Objectives Lead poisoning is a life-threatening condition due to its acute and chronic effects.Therefore, preventive methods are very important to prevent the multiple toxic effects of this metal.Due to the lethal effects of lead and its increasing concentration in the environment, this study was designed and performed to measure the concentration of lead in the blood and tissue of patients undergoing appendectomy and cholecystectomy. Methods In a cross-sectional study that was performed on patients with appendectomy or cholecystectomy in Razi Hospital in Ahvaz during a period of twelve months from May 2019 to May 2020. We examined 120 patients in three groups of appendectomy (n=40), cholecystectomy (n=40) and control (n=40).Blood samples were taken from all three groups. Then, after the operation, a pathology sample was taken from the appendix or gallbladder from patients in two groups who underwent appendectomy and cholecystectomy. X-ray Imaging was used to check for lead. Results Our results show well the mean blood lead concentration in the appendectomy group. In the cholecystectomy group and in the control group, the difference between the three groups was statistically significant (P<0.001). Also, lead was found in 21 samples (52.5%) from the appendectomy group and lead in 23 samples(57.5%) from the cholecystectomy group, but this difference was not statistically significant. (P= 0.175). Conclusion Based on the results of this study, it can be said that chronic exposure and lead poisoning may play a role in the occurrence and change of gallstones and appendicitis.