[Estimation of magnetic radiation effects on leucocytes]

A lot of epidemiological and experimental research has been done recently into effects of magnetic fields (MF) on live bodies. Among others, the effects of MF on human immunological system are studied. Primary cells of the immunological system are leucocytes. A reduction of leucocyte count and any changes in their activity may lead to disturbances in the immunological system and growth of neoplasm. This paper presents a review of research into the effects of magnetic radiation on leucocytes. It describes, among other things, the influence of MF on leukocyte count changes, leucocyte cellular cycles, chromosome defects and DNA synthesis disorders in leucocytes. There is a lot of discrepancy in literature and at this stage it is difficult to draw consistent conclusion as regards the health effects of MF. Some papers claim that MF may reduce the number of leukocytes and modify their proliferation processes. In addition, there is some risk (although small) that MF will cause the aberration of the leukocyte chromosomes. As a result of leukocytes exposure to MF micronuclei were found in them, as well as changes in the activity of cytokines and natural killer cells. Considering that papers published so far present largely varied results, it is difficult to formulate solid conclusions about MF negative effects.