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Radiation dose to small infants from single-photon absorptiometry
J J Steichen1, J G Keriakes, R C Tsang
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH.
Radiology
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Single-photon absorptiometry (SPA) is a safe method for measuring bone mineral content (BMC) in children. Radiation doses are minimal, but SPA should be used in well-designed clinical studies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Bone Health
- Radiation Dosimetry
Background:
- Single-photon absorptiometry (SPA) is a common technique for assessing bone mineral content (BMC) in pediatric populations.
- Evaluating the radiation exposure associated with SPA is crucial for patient safety, especially in infants and children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the radiation dose delivered to patients during single-photon absorptiometry (SPA) for bone mineral content (BMC) measurements in children.
- To assess the cumulative radiation exposure from repeated SPA measurements over a one-year period.
Main Methods:
- A phantom simulating infant bone mineral content was used with lithium fluoride chips to measure radiation dose.
- Measurement procedures accurately replicated the clinical application of SPA for BMC assessment.
- Radiation doses were recorded for the forearm surface, bone marrow, and bone for single and repeated measurements.
Main Results:
- A single SPA measurement results in a radiation dose of 46-70 mrad to the forearm surface, 25-38 mrad to bone marrow, and 125-190 mrad to bone.
- Eight repeated measurements over one year yield cumulative doses of 368-560 mrad (surface), 200-305 mrad (bone marrow), and 1,000-1,525 mrad (bone).
Conclusions:
- The radiation dose from single-photon absorptiometry (SPA) for pediatric bone mineral content (BMC) assessment is considered small.
- Despite low radiation exposure, SPA should be reserved for use within rigorously designed clinical studies.