Buccal epithelial cell micronuclei: Sensitive, non-invasive biomarkers of occupational exposure to low doses of ionizing radiation.

We have evaluated buccal epithelial cell micronucleus formation as a biomarker of genotoxic damage following occupational exposure to low doses of ionizing radiation. Buccal epithelial cells were collected from 42 occupationally exposed medical personnel and 39 non-exposed individuals (reference group). Each individual in the exposed group was routinely monitored with a personal radiation badge.