Long-term Observation of Biochemical Effects of Lead in Human Experiments

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Abstract
To extend 2 previous series of experiments, further long-term tests were performed with daily oral doses of 5 mg Pb2+ in 2 subjects. Pb in whole blood, free protoporphyrin 9 (III) and 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity in erythrocytes, Hb and urinary 5-aminolevulinic acid and coproporphyrin III excretion values were measured. From experiences with 8 human experiments, 3 compartmental phases of early detectable Pb effect were postulated: an erythrocytic reaction of 5-aminolevulinate dehydratase activity, hepatic reactions of 5-aminolevulinic acid and coproporphyrin and an erythropoietic reaction of protoporphyrin. [This study is relevant to occupational exposure to Pb.].