[The radiation load on patients during electron x-ray scanning]

Area of Science:

• Medical physics
• Nuclear medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Accurate estimation of radiation exposure is crucial for cancer patients undergoing diagnostic imaging.
• Electron x-ray scanning utilizes external radiation and internal radiopharmaceuticals (RPs).
• Understanding organ and tissue dosimetry is essential for patient safety and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate radiation exposure to critical organs and tissues from external x-ray radiation and internal RP irradiation.
• To analyze dosimetric investigations during electron x-ray scanning in cancer patients.
• To determine factors influencing radiation exposure during these procedures.

Main Methods:

• Dosimetric investigations were analyzed in 645 cancer patients undergoing electron x-ray scanning.
• Radiation exposure was estimated based on external x-ray sources and internal RP administration.
• The study considered properties of RPs and the spatial relationship between the radiation beam and organs.

Main Results:

• Radiation exposure to critical organs and tissues is dependent on RP characteristics and beam positioning.
• Equivalent doses during electron x-ray scanning exceeded those from short-lived RPs (e.g., 113mIn, 99mTc).
• Conversely, doses were significantly lower when using RPs such as 75Se, 67Ga, and 85Sr.

Conclusions:

• The findings highlight the variable nature of radiation exposure in electron x-ray scanning.
• RP selection and beam localization are critical factors in managing patient dosimetry.
• Further research into optimizing RP use and scanning protocols can minimize radiation risks.