Electrophysiological Study of Subjects Occupationally Exposed to Lead and With Low Levels of Lead Poisoning

• Published in: Scandinavian journal of work, environment & health Vol. 8; p. no. Sul. 1
• Main Authors: Bordo, B M, Filippini, G, Massetto, N, Musicco, M, Boeri, R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.01.1982
• Subjects: blood; blood analysis; electrophysiology; foundries; health and welfare; lead; neuromuscular pathology; occupational exposure; physiology; toxicology; working conditions
• ISSN: 0355-3140

The relationship between the length of exposure to lead, blood lead level (PbB), and peripheral nerve damage in a population occupationally exposed to low lead levels was evaluated. Sixty-two foundry workers were studied whose length of exposure ranged from 5 months to 10 a; their mean PbB in the last 2 a had not exceeded 50 mu g/100 ml (2.4 mu mo1/1). The referents were 27 hospital employees, of comparable ages, not occupationally exposed to lead. The electrophysiological examination consisted of the determination of the motor conduction velocity (MCV) of the median and peroneal nerves, sensory conduction velocity (SCV) of the median and sural nerves, and the latency of the T and H reflexes. The mean MCV, SCV and the amplitude of the sensory action potential (SAP) of the median nerve were significantly lower in the group of exposed workers than in the reference group.