Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity Assessment of Volatile Organic Compounds in Pathology Professionals Through the Buccal Micronuclei Assay

• DOI: 10.3390/toxics13050411
• Publication Date: 2025-05-19T15:54:26Z
• Authors: Fátima Baptista; Patrícia V. Garcia; Armindo S. Rodrigues; Carina Ladeira
• Keywords: Buccal swab

In pathology laboratories, several volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are used, such as formaldehyde, ethanol, and xylene. These substances recognized genotoxic cytotoxic, which is why their handling poses risks to human health. The buccal micronucleus (MN) cytome assay a non-invasive, useful, simple method detect these effects in exposed individuals. aim of the study was evaluate risk genotoxicity cytotoxicity VOCs professionals S. Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal. comprised two groups: workers (n = 21) from three laboratories Miguel, reference group 50), randomly chosen other hospital services without known exposure VOCs. exfoliated cells were auto-sampled by all participants using cytobrush. samples processed ThinPrep®, stained with modified Feulgen Fast Green, visualized for MN nuclear anomalies (ONAs), karyorrhexis, pyknotic, karyolytic cells. Results showed that have predictive significance frequency, leading conclusion an increased factor health professionals, approximately four times greater than control group.