The biological effects of lead are dependent on the level and duration of exposure. Lead inhibits 3 enzymes of haem biosynthesis (δ amino levulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD), coproporphyrin oxidase, and ferrochelatase). This effects erythrocyte formation by impairing haem synthesis and also depresses the serum level of erythropoietin. Lead exposure also affects calcium metabolism.1
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/doctor/emergency-medicine/lead-poisoning-pro