Interrelationship of Biochemical Responses to the Absorption of Inorganic Lead

Increases In the rate of the absorption of lead by human beings, beyond that which occurs In consequence of the inevitable exposure in the common environment, result In biological responses, represented by certain biochemical phenomena, without, necessarily, the development of any symptoms of lead poisoning. Articles in the scientific and professional literature dealing with the subject are examined, and information relevant in a systematic manner is presented. The relationships which exist between these biochemical responses to the absorption of lead are examined in order to demonstrate the extent to which each response can be employed as a prediction of the degree of lead absorption, as well as the status of the other phenomena. In this manner, the relative usefulness of these responses are indicators of the occupational hazard of lead absorption by exposed individuals and groups can be examined.