Algorithm for Reducing Overall Biological Detriment Caused by PET/CT: an Age-Based Study

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiology
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) scans involve radiation exposure.
• Minimizing biological detriment and cancer risk is crucial in diagnostic imaging.
• Patient age and sex can influence radiation sensitivity and risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a simple, age-based algorithm to reduce the biological detriment associated with PET/CT scans.
• To assess the impact of the algorithm on effective dose (ED) and additional cancer risk (ACR).
• To investigate differential effects of the algorithm across age groups and sexes.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 421 patients undergoing PET/CT was studied.
• An algorithm (ALGO) modified Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) dose and scan times based on patient age.
• Effective dose (ED) and additional cancer risk (ACR) were calculated under reference (REF) and ALGO conditions.

Main Results:

• The algorithm significantly reduced ACR in all age brackets (18-90 years) and both sexes (p < 0.0001).
• ACR reduction was more pronounced in female patients compared to males.
• The effective dose (ED) in the reference condition was 4.57 ± 0.92 mSv.

Conclusions:

• The age-based algorithm effectively reduces the additional cancer risk (ACR) from PET/CT scans.
• The protocol modifications are particularly beneficial for younger and female patient populations.
• Implementation of this algorithm can enhance patient safety in nuclear medicine.