Abstract

VINETA RUIZ, Maite; GALLEGO YANEZ, Mª José  and  VILLANUEVA, Ghino Patricio. Cytostatic Agents and effects on reproductive health: a review of literature. Med. segur. trab. [online]. 2013, vol.59, n.233, pp.426-443. ISSN 1989-7790.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S0465-546X2013000400007.

Introduction: The use of cytostatic agents has shown enough scientific evidence in the origin of mutagenic and cancer effects, as well as teratogenicity in human beings. The risk of exposure to these agents is not only confined to patients receiving therapeutic doses, but also there is an important exposure risk on the health of workers participating in the preparation, handling, administration and storage of these agents. General Objective: To review current literature in order to establish the relationship between cytostatic handling by health workers, and the possible effects on reproductive health. Material and Methods: A literature review between 2005 to 2012 was carried out. The search was done by direct consultation and internet access to MEDLINE data. After screening, a total of 5 publications of scientific evidence were found and analyzed. Results: In a meta-analysis in 2005, data on the following effects was found: spontaneous abortions, congenital deformities, ectopic pregnancies and cancer. Thereafter, in a case-control study, data on the following effects was found: premature childbirth, low weight at birth and difficulties in achieving conception. Cohort studies showed the following evidence: spontaneous abortions in one of them, congenital deformities and cancer in the second one, and low weight at birth and congenital deformities in the third one, but with lower figures than expected. Discussion: The results of this study don't show a strong statistical association, and therefore more powerful studies would be recommended. Despite existing Guidelines from 2004, studies from 2005 still show risks and effects related to exposure; so there is a long way to go in improving adherence and evaluation of these Guidelines. Also there is place for improvement in the field of Health Surveillance.

Keywords : Cytostatic agents; reproductive health; mutagenicity; teratogenicity and cancer effects.

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