Effects of high-level exposure to lead on NK cell activity and T-lymphocyte functions in workers.

1. NK and T cell functions were measured in peripheral blood lymphocytes of workers occupationally exposed to lead. 2. No differences were found in these functions even in those workers with higher levels of blood and urine lead and urinary delta-ALA than the currently accepted biological limit values as compared to controls. 3. We conclude that high chronic exposure to lead is not associated with an impairment or either T- or NK cell functions in man.