Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Micronuclei in the Buccal Mucosal Cells of Individuals Associated with Tobacco

Abstract

Introduction: Micronucleus/micronuclei) have the potential to serve as an important biomarker in exfoliated cell. Exfoliated buccal mucosal cells can be evaluated using MN assay which can be applied to individuals practicing tobacco habits and are at risk of developing oral cancer. Material and Methods: 80 tobacco users and 20 non tobacco users as control were included in the study. Smears were taken and stained with H&E, feulgen, acridine orange. MN was counted using criteria given by Tolbert et al. Data was analyzed using SPSS software. Results: MN higher in tobacco users. The values obtained for the MN count in tobacco chewers using these stains were statistically significant (P<0.05). The values obtained for the MN count in tobacco smokers using these stains were statistically significant (P<0.05). Qualitatively a good score for staining intensity; MN outline and nuclear outline was obtained for acridine orange, followed by H&E and feulgen stain. Discussion: In our study quantitatively, MN was counted in maximum number using H&E stain, followed by acridine orange and feulgen. Qualitatively, MN count was best viewed using acridine orange stain under a fluorescence microscope, followed by H&E and feulgen under a light microscope. Conclusion: Assessment of MN in exfoliated cells is a promising tool to study epithelial carcinogens in the oral cavity.

Keywords

• Buccal mucosa cells
• cytogenic biomarker
• micronuclei