[Heavy metals--toxicity at low doses in the environment and in the work place]

Ecotoxicity of heavy metals is related to their persistence, accumulation and dispersion tendency. Sources, pathways of exposure and adverse health effects of low doses are reviewed. Environmental and occupational toxicity of lead, cadmium and mercury compounds are discussed and the carcinogenic and sensitizing effects of chromium compounds as an example of a heavy metal which is essential in low doses. High risk groups, most susceptible target organs, early symptoms, signs of subclinical poisoning, numbers of diseases from heavy metals accepted in Austria as occupational diseases and environmental hazards are summarized.