Cytogenetic investigation on leukocytes of workers exposed to metallic mercury.

A cytogenetic analysis was performed in 28 mercury-exposed subjects as well as eight control subjects from the same chloralkali plant and in 12 healthy controls from the "general population." No chromosomal effects could be demonstrated in the mercury-exposed population in comparison with both control groups. Also no effect of smoking was observed. From the study it seems obvious that mercury, although it is capable of producing chromosomal damage even at low exposure levels, will not be harmful in this respect when adequate protection measures are taken.