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Audit of appropriateness and outcome of computed tomography brain scanning for headaches in paediatric age group

Muhammad Nawaz1, Ayesha Amin, Ahmad Nadeem Qureshi

  • 1Department of Radiology, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan. nawazrad@yahoo.com

Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad : JAMC
|April 7, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Computed tomography (CT) brain scans for pediatric headaches are often unnecessary. Most scans reveal normal findings, suggesting a need for clearer imaging referral guidelines to avoid inappropriate radiation exposure.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Headache is a frequent pediatric complaint.
  • Brain imaging is increasingly used for pediatric headaches.
  • Evaluating appropriateness of CT scans for pediatric headaches is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the appropriateness of CT brain scans for pediatric headaches.
  • To evaluate the outcomes of CT scans in children presenting with headaches.
  • To analyze CT scan findings in children with isolated or migraine headaches.

Main Methods:

  • Descriptive study conducted over one year.
  • Included children aged 4-18 years with isolated or migraine headaches.
  • Utilized American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria (ACRAC) for CT scan appropriateness.

Main Results:

  • 100 pediatric patients underwent CT brain scans.
  • Only 4% of scans showed abnormal findings (sinusitis).
  • 96% of CT scans were normal, with no serious lesions detected.

Conclusions:

  • A significant proportion of CT scans for pediatric headaches may be inappropriate.
  • Development of local imaging referral guidelines is recommended.
  • Reducing unnecessary CT scans can prevent inappropriate radiation exposure in children.
Abstract

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