The in vitro determination of genotoxicity in peripheral lymphocytes of welders exposed to fumes from metal arc welding

Authors: CEYLAN ŞENER, HALİL ERHAN EROĞLU

Abstract: Gas metal arc welding is a widely used method in many industrial areas. In this study, the peripheral blood lymphocytes of 23 welders and 25 nonexposed subjects were monitored for genotoxicity. Materials and methods: The blood samples obtained from the subjects were incubated with a culture medium at 37 °C for 72 h. Cytochalasin-B and BrdU were added for micronucleus and replication index. After incubation, the cultures were harvested, stained, and examined. Results: The micronucleus rate (2.165 ± 1.645) of the welders was quite higher than that of those not exposed (1.352 ± 0.978) (P < 0.01). There was a significant difference between micronucleus rates of smoking and nonsmoking subjects. It was found that as the time of exposure to welding fumes increased, so did the micronucleus rates (2.938 ± 1.723) (P < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between micronucleus frequency and age. The replication index rate (1.026 ± 0.020) of the welders was higher than that of those not exposed (1.019 ± 0.016) (P = 0.01). Conclusion: It is advised that welders who work with gas metal arc welding be instructed and that necessary protective measures be taken because of the risk caused by metal arc welding fumes.

Keywords: Gas metal arc welding, micronucleus, replication index, welder

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