Abstract
The potential mutagenic/carcinogenic action of waste anaesthetic gases and antineoplastic drugs in occupationally exposed human populations has been previously reported in several studies. Antineoplastic agents discovered in the first two decades of cancer therapy (1950 to 1970) largely interact with DNA or precursors, inhibiting the synthesis of DNA or causing irreparable damage to DNA itself. Considering the mechanisms of the antineoplastic drugs that are used, it is not surprising that many persons involved in health care, especially nurses, are worried about the health effects of these drugs. Experimental and epidemiological studies suggest that genotoxic effects can arise from inhalation anaesthetics. Due to their widespread use in operating rooms, there is a great concern that operating room personnel as well as patients might be at health risk from anaesthetics. The aim of the present study was to assess the possible genotoxic risk, by the alkaline comet assay, in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of nurses who are handling antineoplastic drugs or are exposed to waste anaesthetic gases.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
