The Deposition and Removal of Lead in the Soft Tissues (Liver, Kidneys, and Spleen)

Abstract

Pb deposited in the softer tissues of rats is transitory in nature and may be diminished by 50% within 2 wks. following restoration to a normal diet. Coincidently there is a slight rise in the Pb content of the bone tissue following this rest period and a slight rise in blood Ca. At the high level of Pb intake employed, rather severe injury to the proximal renal convoluted tubules occurred in 6 wks., but this damage was markedly reduced following return to a normal diet. Significant spleen changes occurred with less reduction to normal. The reduction of Pb in the soft tissues observed chemically parallels the repair of injury produced by the Pb, and the chemical and pathological changes in the soft tissues associated with the absorption of Pb are of a transient nature.