Coproporphyrinuria in groups of workers as an index of inorganic lead absorption.

In a study of signs and symptoms of lead intoxication in workers in lead processing industries in the Netherlands, use has been made of the apparatus described by Donath (1956) for semiquantitative determination of coproporphyrin excretion. The significance of this method in the screening of exposed groups of workers has been investigated. The method proved to be a valuable tool in the prevention of inorganic lead intoxication. The frequency distribution of coproporphyrinuria in groups of workers indicates the extent of lead exposure. If the average coproporphyrinuria exceeds 15 degrees on the Donath scale there is an increased lead intake. From the frequency distribution of coproporphyrinuria the degree of air pollution with lead and the degree of anaemia due to lead intake may be roughly estimated.