Lead concentrations in cortical and trabecular bones in deceased smelter workers.

The aim of the study was to compare bone lead concentrations in cortical and trabecular bones in long-term exposed primary copper and lead smelter workers, and to relate the measured concentrations to the previous lead exposure of the workers. Lead concentrations in seven bones (trabecular: sternum, vertebrae, iliac crest, rib; cortical: femur, left forefinger, and temporal bone) were determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry in 32 male, long-term exposed copper and lead smelter workers, and compared with levels in 10 male occupationally unexposed reference persons. A time-integrated blood lead index (cumulative blood lead index, CBLI) was calculated for each worker.