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Diagnostic reference levels in digital mammography: a systematic review.
Moayyad E Suleiman1, Patrick C Brennan2, Mark F McEntee2
1Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, M205, Cumberland Campus, 75 East St, Lidcombe, Sydney, NSW 2141, Australia msul1801@uni.sydney.edu.au.
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|December 29, 2014
Summary
This review highlights variations in diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for digital mammography, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols. Establishing consistent methodologies is crucial for accurate breast screening comparisons worldwide.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Public Health
Background:
- Digital mammography is a key tool for breast cancer screening.
- Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) are essential for optimizing radiation dose in medical imaging.
- Variability in DRLs can impact screening effectiveness and patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing literature on diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) in digital mammography.
- To analyze the methodologies employed in establishing these DRLs.
- To identify challenges in comparing DRLs across different countries.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (Medline, Cinahl, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar).
- Search terms included 'DRLs', 'digital mammography', and 'breast screen'.
- 22 studies were included after screening 1539 articles for relevant data extraction and analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in methodologies used to establish DRLs for digital mammography.
- Variations include test subject types, protocols, conversion factors, breast compression thickness, and percentile values.
- These discrepancies hinder direct comparison of DRLs between countries.
Conclusions:
- Current methodologies for establishing DRLs in digital mammography lack standardization.
- An internationally accepted protocol is needed to enable meaningful comparisons of DRLs globally.
- Standardization would facilitate dose optimization and improve the consistency of breast screening programs.
