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Pencil lead
Definition
This poisoning is caused by ingestion of regular pencil lead.
Alternative Names
Graphite
Poisonous Ingredient
- Carbon
- Graphite
Where Found
- Regular pencils
Symptoms
- Gastrointestinal
- Stomach ache
- Vomiting
Home Care
Graphite is relatively nontoxic. Contact Poison Control for further information.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- The patient's age, weight, and condition
- Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength, if known)
- The time it was swallowed
- The amount swallowed
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the person to the hospital. If it is necessary, bring a pencil sample with you to the emergency room.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed on the patient:
- Observe the patient.
- Treat the symptoms.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Since this chemical is normally nontoxic, recovery is likely.
Review Date:
4/16/2004
Reviewed By: Cherlin Johnson, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Reviewed By: Cherlin Johnson, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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