Effects of lead on immune parameters in occupationally exposed workers

Background To assess the immune competence of workers occupationally expose d to lead, several subsets of peripheral lymphocytes, i.e., T TCD4(+), TCD8 (+), B, NK cells, serum immunoglobulin and complement protein concentration s, chemotaxis, and intracellular killing activity of neutrophils of 25 male storage battery workers have been analyzed and compared to 25 healthy male s with no history of lead exposure. Results The results of this study which indicated that industrial exposure to lead resulting in group mean blood lead concentrations of 75 +/- 18 mu g /dl are associated with a significant depression of: T helper lymphocytes, Ig G, Ig M and C3, C4 complement levels, chemotaxis, and random migration o f neutrophils. No correlation was found between the duration of exposure an d the altered immune parameters. Conclusion The immune system can be a target for lead toxicity and eliminat ion of lead hazard in working places is necessary. Am. J. Ind. Med. 38:349- 354, 2000. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.