The histopathology of tissue lead retention.

An experimental murine model of chronic lead retention is established. This model excludes joint communication and synovial fluid solubility of lead ions recognized in human gunshot injury. Degenerative changes in the visceral organs and bone appear in these mice 30 days after implantation of lead spheres in the subcutaneous tissues of the posterior body wall. Degeneration, necrosis and interstitial fibrosis of the lung, kidney and remodeling of femoral bone are noted during the course of the experiment (120 days). It is concluded that the systemic diffusion of lead ions from a central focus is related to the development of an absorptive circulatory mechanism around the retained peripheral lead mass.