Hematological changes after Röntgenray exposure in radiologic technologists

Abstract

Background and objective: In view of the known health hazards of X-ray radiation, this study focuses on the outlined effect of prolonged accidental or work-related Röntgenray exposure to hematological parameters such as red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets count as well as serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione in X-ray technicians. Methods: In this cross-sectional study with a comparison group, blood samples were collected over six months period from X-ray technician assistants across Rizgary teaching hospital, maternity teaching hospital, Nanakaly hospital, Erbil teaching hospital, Ashty hospital, Hundreen hospital, and Harem hospital. A convenience sample was chosen for collecting subjects exposed to X-ray at the radiology department in the hospitals mentioned above. The results were analyzed and compared with a second control group of healthy unexposed individuals. Results: It was determined that prolonged Röntgenray exposure could lead to an increase in the amount of oxidative stress as denoted by the decrease in the levels of reduced glutathione in the plasma of our test subjects. Conclusion: Although there were changes in the mean levels of plasma RBC, WBC, platelets, and malondialdehyde, the differences of these parameters between the two groups were not significant statistically. However, there was a significant reduction in glutathione levels in plasma samples of the subjects, indicating elevated oxidative stress levels within the body. Keywords: X-ray; Blood cells; Malondialdehyde; Glutathione.