Evaluation of Micronuclei Index in Smokers & Non - Smokers a Comparative Study

INTRODUCTION: Micronuclei (MN) are microscopically visible round or oval cytoplasmic chromatin masses in the extra nuclear vicinity, originating from aberrant mitosis, chromatic fragments or whole chromosomes. The local factors like smoking exerts an influence on oral mucosa cells which are reflected as cellular changes resulting in the formation of MN. AIM: To evaluate and compare the MN index in oral exfoliated buccal cells of smokers and non-smokers using May-Grunwald Giemsa (MGG) and Acridine Orange Stains. OBJECTIVES: 1. To evaluate the MN index using MGG stain in smokers & non smokers. 2. To evaluate the MN index using Acridine Orange stain in smokers & non smokers. 3. To compare and evaluate the efficiency of MGG and Acridine Orange stained slides of smokers and nonsmokers. MATERIALS & METHODS: 60 subjects were divided into two groups of 30 each based on the smoking habit. Before sampling, the subjects were made to rinse the mouth thoroughly and then the buccal mucosa was scraped and smears were prepared which are subsequently stained with MGG and Acridine Orange stain respectively. MN was evaluated using the Tolbert et al criteria and data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: Significant increase was observed in a number of micronuclei of smokers compared to nonsmokers. There is no significant difference in the staining efficiency of Acridine Orange and MGG stains. Conclusion: Acridine Orange and MGG stains can be effectively used to evaluate MN index as a biomarker in high risk patients. However, MGG stain is cost effective.