Cytogenetic alterations associated with occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in radiology technicians: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15343/0104-7809.202650e19452025PKeywords:
Radiation Exposure, Cytogenetics, Biomarkers, Genomic InstabilityAbstract
Occupational exposure to ionizing radiation represents a relevant physical hazard for radiology technicians and radiological service workers, potentially inducing measurable cytogenetic damage even in low-dose scenarios. The objective of this study was to synthesize recent evidence on cytogenetic alterations associated with occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in radiology professionals, identifying the most frequently altered biomarkers and their relationship with dosimetry, work sector, and individual characteristics. This is a systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Observational studies with primary human data, a non-exposed control group, and quantitative assessment of cytogenetic biomarkers were included. Five studies published between 2021 and 2025, involving more than 2,600 participants, met the eligibility criteria. The included studies reported higher frequencies of cytogenetic damage in exposed workers compared to controls, particularly for micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges, nuclear buds, dicentrics, and structural chromosomal aberrations. The magnitude of the findings varied according to the biomarker used, the type of radiological technology, the occupational sector, and confounding factors such as age, sex, and smoking. The correlation between individual dosimetry and biological damage was heterogeneous. It is concluded that occupationally exposed radiology professionals constitute a relevant group for cytogenetic surveillance, and that biodosimetry may complement physical dosimetry in occupational monitoring programs.
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