The influence of iron deficiency on tissue content and toxicity of ingested lead in the rat.

Abstract Lead poisoning in young children is often associated with iron deficiency anemia. The relationship of this dietary deficiency to enhancement of lead toxicity has not been documented. In the present study, a subtoxic dose of lead (200 μg per milliliter of drinking water) was fed to rats receiving a purified diet containing adequate iron (25 p.p.m.), calcium, and phosphorus, and a diet deficient only in iron (5 p.p.m.) for 10 weeks. Iron deficiency resulted in an increased retention of lead in liver, kidney, and bone, and increased urinary excretion of lead. Biochemical parameters of lead toxicity including urinary excretion of δ-aminolevulinic acid were greater in iron-deficient rats fed lead than in rats receiving adequate diets and lead. The metabolic basis for the enhancement of lead retention and toxicity by iron deficiency is not known, but may result from increased lead absorption and transport.