Diagnostic parameters for detecting early lead poisoning
Lu, C.M.; Wang, H.C.; Chien, T.C.; Miao, H.F.
Chinese Medical Journal 4(5): 403-406
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0366-6999 PMID: 102500 Document Number: 129738
Workers (110) of a storage battery plant with relatively high Pb dust exposure were investigated. Different parameters indicating Pb exposure were used. Diagnostic Pb excretion tests were carried out in 11 cases of suspected Pb poisoning. Urinary Pb, .delta.-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and coproporphyrin may be used as early diagnostic indicators with normal limits of 0.08, 6 mg/l and 150 .mu.g/l. Hair Pb may be used as an indicator of Pb absorption. Blood ALA-dehydrase is highly sensitive to the effect of Pb but is not suitable as a diagnostic indicator, it may be used in monitoring environmental Pb pollution. Hb and basophilic stippling cell count are not specific to Pb effect. In cases suspected to Pb poisoning, diagnostic Pb excretion test is valuable to confirm the diagnosis.