Evaluation of DNA damage in lymphocytes of radiology personnel by comet assay.
OBJECTIVE
The importance of X-rays as a diagnostic medical tool cannot be denied. However, continuous exposure to X-rays can cause DNA damage. This study aimed to use the comet assay technique to investigate the level of DNA damage in lymphocytes due to X-rays in occupationally exposed personnel.


METHODS
Blood samples were collected from 74 exposed and 70 control subjects for analysis. A total of 100 randomly captured cells from each slide were examined using an epifluorescent microscope. The comets were analyzed by a visual scoring method according to comet tail length.


RESULTS
The results indicated a significant increase (p<0.05) in DNA damage in X-rays technicians (129.8 ± 17.2) as compared with the control group (53.0 ± 25.0). A significant increase (p<0.02) in DNA damage was also observed with an increase in exposure duration of technicians because of their service length.


CONCLUSIONS
The present study suggests that the exposed radiology personnel should carefully comply with radiation protection procedures such as wearing of lead apron during diagnostic procedures and minimize radiation exposure where possible to avoid potential genotoxic effects due to X-rays.
Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar.
Muhammad
M
Khisroon
Ajmal
A
Khan
Maryam
M
Naseem
Naheed
N
Ali
Sardar
S
Khan
Syed Basit
SB
Rasheed
D000328:Adult; D020552:Comet Assay; D004249:DNA Damage; D006801:Humans; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000528:radiation effects*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010564:Personnel, Hospital; D000069079:Radiation Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011872:Radiology Department, Hospital