Enhanced yield of chromosomal aberrations in human peripheral lymphocytes in vitro using contrast media in X-irradiation.

The influence of water-soluble iodized contrast media to radiation response was investigated by means of chromosomal aberrations in human peripheral lymphocytes in vitro. Contrast medium itself showed no substantial action in producing chromosomal aberrations. But contrast medium combined with X-rays increased radiation-induced chromosomal aberration yield, depending on the iodine concentration. This effect is obviously caused by the enhancement of radiation dose because of the photoelectric effect of iodine.