EFFECTS OF HIGH-LEVEL EXPOSURE TO LEAD ON NK CELL-ACTIVITY AND T-LYMPHOCYTE FUNCTIONS IN WORKERS

1 NK and T cell functions were measured in peripheral blood lymphocyte s of workers occupationally exposed to lead. 2 No differences were fou nd in these functions even in those workers with higher levels of bloo d and urine lead and urinary delta-ALA than the currently accepted bio logical limit values as compared to controls. 3 We conclude that high chronic exposure to lead is not associated with an impairment or eithe r T- or NK cell functions in man.