Dose dependent reduction of erythroid progenitor cells and inappropriate erythropoietin response in exposure to lead: new aspects of anaemia induced by lead.

Abstract

The data suggest new aspects of lead induced anaemia besides the currently acknowledged shortened life span of erythrocytes and inhibition of haemoglobin synthesis. Two additional mechanisms should be considered: the reduction of BFU-E cells, and inappropriate renal EPO production in the presence of severe exposure to lead, which would lead to an inadequate maturation of BFU-E cells.