Chromosomal aberrations in humans induced by benzene

Adverse effects associated with occupational exposure to benzene have often been reported in humans. It has been shown, that benzene causes chromosomal aberrations, sister chromatid exchanges and micronuclei in lymphocytes of exposed workers. In addition to evidence by conventional cytogenetic methods, the genotoxic effect of benzene has also been proved by a more specific approach based on fluorescence in situ hybridization with DNA probes. In the present paper, the nature of benzene-induced chromosomal aberrations and supposed consequence on human health is reviewed. The new possibilities in chromosomal alterations identification by molecular cytogenetic methods are also presented.