Biochemical indicators of metabolic poisoning associated with lead based occupations in nutritionally disadvantaged communities.

The biochemical alterations that occur in chronic lead exposure were studied in 86 males who were occupationally exposed to the metal. The biochemical indices investigated were blood lead, total and ionized calcium, inorganic phosphate, total protein and albumin, uric acid and 1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol [1,25] (OH2 D3]. Serum total and ionized calcium levels and 1,25 [OH2] D3 were significantly lower in lead workers than in the control population (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). Multiple regression analysis showed an important relationship between blood lead and serum calcium. Uric acid which was positively correlated with blood lead levels was significantly higher in lead workers than in controls P < 0.001. There were no changes in the other biochemical indices studied. The biochemical abnormalities that were established in this report which actually reflect metabolic poisoning may be helpful in the early detection of plumbism before the onset of clinical lead poisoning, particularly in nutritionally disadvantaged communities.