Assessment of neurobehavioral functions of workers exposed to low doses of metallic lead

The effects of low-dose lead occupational exposure on neurobehavioral functions are still not well defined by international literature. The objective of this study is to assess by psychometric testing the presence of possible neuropsychological impairment in a group of male Italian workers with low blood lead levels in comparison to an adequate non exposed worker group. Given informed consent to take part to the study, all workers were interviewed about their working and clinical history and underwent determination of blood lead levels (PbB). An internationally validated computerized battery of psychometric tests and a standardized paper-and-pencil version of mood self-rating scale and WAIS-R Vocabulary subtest were also administered to the workers. Exposed workers had a geometric mean of PbB significantly higher than non exposed workers, but rather low (16.4 +/- 1.7 microg/dl). The results of psychometric tests were not significantly different between the two worker groups, even after adjusting for the main confounding factors. In workers exposed to low lead doses no neurobehavioral abnormalities were demonstrated by the administered psychometric test battery.