Chromosomal aberrations in peripheral lymphocytes of nurses and physicians handling antineoplastic drugs

The frequencies of structural chromosome aberrations of persons occupationally exposed to antineoplastic drugs without adequate protection were measured in peripheral blood lymphocytes of 106 persons from five oncological units and in an adequate control population. The observed chromosomal aberration frequencies were 3.3 +/- 0.1 aberrations per 100 cells in the exposed group and 0.6 +/- 0.1 aberrations per 100 cells in the controls. Chromosomal aberration frequencies were not correlated with age, duration of exposure and smoking habits. The results stress the necessity to protect hospital staff against the potential risk related to the handling of antineoplastic drugs.