Micronuclei in Cytokinesis-blocked Lymphocytes of Cancer Patients Following Fractionated Partial-body Radiotherapy

Summary

We applied the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay to measure chromosome damage in lymphocytes of 11 cancer patients undergoing fractionated partial-body irradiation. Measurements performed before, during and after cessation of radiotherapy showed a dose-related increase in micronucleus frequency in each of the patients studied. When the results for micronucleus frequency (Y) were plotted against the estimated equivalent whole-body dose (X) the dose-response relationship obtained was Y = 75·8X + 49·5 (r = 0·783, P < 0·0001). A general decline in MN frequency was observed during the post-treatment period down to 57 per cent (± 10) after 12 months but there was considerable variation between individuals. The advantages and disadvantages of the application of the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay as a biological dosemeter for lymphocytes irradiated in vivo are discussed.