Sensitivity and specificity of the micronucleus test in hypotonic-swollen mononuclear leukocytes compared to the micronucleus test in binucleated lymphocytes to assess chromosomal breaks.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the sensitivity and specificity of the micronucleus (MN) test on swollen mononuclear cells compared to that in binucleated lymphocytes.


METHODS
This is a cross-sectional experimental study. Samples were taken from patients who had a malignancy who were scheduled to receive chemotherapy; samples were taken before and after the chemotherapy regimen began. The MN tests on swollen mononuclear cells and binucleated lymphocytes were performed on every sample. Proportions of micronucleated cells/cells screened were noted and interpreted as positive or negative results. The results of both tests were compared to get the sensitivity and specificity of the MN test on swollen mononuclear cells.


RESULTS
Of 59 samples obtained, 54 were included in this study. The results showed that the sensitivity of the MN test on swollen mononuclear cells compared to that on binucleated lymphocytes was 89% and specificity was 78%.


CONCLUSIONS
The MN test on swollen mononuclear cells was able to detect chromosomal breaks caused by chronic clastogen exposure.
Pawitan
Jeanne Adiwinata
JA
Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia. jeanneadiwip@yahoo.com
Suryono
Isnani Azizah
IA
D019457:Chromosome Breakage; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007038:Hypotonic Solutions; D007963:Leukocytes, Mononuclear / Q000473:pathology*; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000473:pathology; D015162:Micronucleus Tests / Q000379:methods; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D007038:Hypotonic Solutions