1 The background, scope and limitations of laboratory methods for the diagnosis of inorganic dead poisoning are outlined in the context of the work of a specialist clinical laboratory for trace element analysis.
2 Data for blood lead, haemoglobin and erythrocyte zinc protoporphyrin concentrations are presented in cases of clinical and sub-clinical poisoning due to accidental or occupational exposure.
3 Data from population surveys of children and adults subject to either environmental or occupational exposure are also shown.
4 In general, analysis for lead in an appropriate specimen of blood offers the single most useful index of exposure.
5 The importance of good accuracy control in such measurements is emphasized.
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