Скачать или смотреть Lead Poisoning line Burton’s line or Burtonian line; classic clinical sign of chronic lead poisoning

Burton’s Line—also known as the Burtonian line—is a classic clinical sign of chronic lead poisoning, especially in individuals with prolonged exposure to lead.

🔍 What Is Burton’s Line?
It appears as a bluish-black or bluish-gray line along the margin of the gums, typically at the base of the teeth.

Caused by the reaction between circulating lead in the blood and sulfur ions released by oral bacteria.

This reaction forms lead sulfide (PbS), which deposits in the gingival tissue.

🧪 Why It Matters
Burton’s line is not always present, but when it is, it’s a visible clue to chronic lead intoxication.

It’s more likely to appear in people with poor oral hygiene, high blood lead levels, and ongoing exposure—such as workers in battery factories, smelters, or those exposed to lead-containing products.

Often accompanied by other signs like basophilic stippling in red blood cells and anemia.

🩺 Clinical Relevance
Burton’s line is a non-invasive diagnostic clue that can prompt further testing, such as blood lead level analysis.

It was first described in 1840 by Dr. Henry Burton, who noted the line in patients with unexplained symptoms and linked it to lead absorption.



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