Ethidium bromide exposure occurs because of inhalation, skin absorption, and ingestion. It is a toxic mutagen that can cause genetic damage. Maintaining good laboratory practices can avoid exposure to ethidium bromide.
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I got exposed to a small amount of ethidium bromide. Will I get cancer?
Query: Hi doctor, I just now had a 3 to 4 seconds exposure to UV radiation when using agarose gel electrophoresis. Also, yesterday when preparing to run DNA, a small amount of Ethidium bromide landed on my finger. I immediately washed it with water. What is the possibility that these may cause a skin mutat... Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. You've taken the appropriate step by washing the exposed skin area. There's no need to overly worry, given the brief duration of exposure and the limited amount of Ethidium bromide involved. It's unlikely that you'll experience blisters, redness, or itching. However, it'... Read Full »
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