Investigation of DNA damage by the alkaline comet assay in 131I-treated thyroid cancer patients.

Objective: To assess the possible applicability of comet assay in the evaluation of DNA damage caused by ionizing radiation. The alkaline comet assay or single-cell gel electrophoresis has been used as a standard method for measuring and analyzing DNA damage.

Study Design: Peripheral blood samples were collected from papillary thyroid cancer patients who received 131I by oral administration.