Validation of the dicentric chromosome assay for radiation biological dosimetry in South Korea

The dicentric chromosome assay (DCA) is a well-established biodosimetry test to estimate exposure to ionizing radiation. The Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS) established a DCA protocol as a medical response to radiation emergencies in South Korea. To maintain its accuracy and performance, intercomparison exercises with Health Canada (HC) have been conducted; herein, we aimed to validate our capacity of DCA analysis based on those results. Blood samples irradiated at HC were shipped to KIRAMS to assess the irradiation dose to blinded samples using conventional DCA full scoring and triage-based techniques (conventional DCA scoring in triage mode and DCA QuickScan method). Actual doses fell within the 95% confidence intervals of dose estimates for 70-100% of the blinded samples in 2015-2018. All methods discriminated binary dose categories, reflecting clinical significance. This DCA can be used as a reliable radiation biodosimetry tool in preparation for radiation accidents in South Korea.