Genotoxicity evaluation of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in exfoliated cervical cells using the micronucleus (MN) test

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to determine whether any relationships exist between the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and micronuclei or other nuclear anomalies, including condensed chromatin, karyorrhexis, and karyolysis, on the cervical epithelium in young women. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted. The study population comprised healthy women aged ≤40 years who were referred for birth control. Cervical smears that were obtained from 18 women before and three months after LNG-IUS insertion were tested for micronuclei and other nuclear anomaliesusing the micronucleus test. Results The results revealed no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in the frequency of micronucleated exfoliated cervical mucosa cells after LNG-IUS exposure. However, LNG-IUS was able to increase other nuclear alterations closely related to cytotoxicity. Conclusions Data indicated that exposure to LNG-IUS may not be a factor in inducing chromosomal damage, but it can promote cytotoxicity.