DNA Single-Strand Breaks in Peripheral Lymphocytes of Clinical Personnel with Occupational Exposure to Volatile Inhalational Anesthetics

The rates of DNA single-strand breaks in peripheral lymphocytes of 41 persons administering anesthesia daily and 44 control persons were determined by nucleoid sedimentation. There is a significantly higher rate of DNA single-strand breaks in nonsmoking anesthesia persons than in nonsmoking control persons (P < 0.01). Smoking anesthesia persons and smoking control persons presented increased rates of DNA single-strand breaks. Nonsmoking nurse anesthetists showed an insignificantly higher rate of damage than nonsmoking anesthesiologists. DNA single-strand breaks indicate damage before the start of DNA repair. Therefore, detected DNA single-strand breaks may be reversible. As not every DNA repair is perfect, increased rates of DNA single-strand breaks may possibly lead to irreversible DNA damage.