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Published on: March 11, 2021
Understanding the risk of ionizing radiation in breast imaging: Concepts and quantities, clinical importance, and
S Di Maria1, T J A van Nijnatten2, C R L P N Jeukens3
1Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Campus Tecnológico e Nuclear, Estrada Nacional 10, km 139,7 2695-066, Bobadela LRS, Portugal.
Background:
Conventional mammography remains the primary imaging modality for state-of-the-art breast imaging practice and its benefit (both on diagnostic and screening) was largely reported. In mammography, the typical Mean Glandular Dose (MGD) from X-ray radiation to the breast spans, on average, from 1 to 10 mGy, depending on breast thicknesses, percentage of fibroglandular tissue, and on the examination purpose.
Methods:
The aim of this narrative review is to describe the extent of radiation risk in X-ray breast imaging and discuss the main steps and parameters (e.g. MGD, screening frequency and number of examination views) that may have an influence on the radiation risk assessment.
Results:
Even though the radiation doses used with these examinations are very low, as compared to other medical or natural radiation exposures, there is a non-negligible associated risk of radiation-induced cancer. Accurate radiation risk assessment permits to better balance the overall estimation of the benefit-to-risk ratio in X-ray breast imaging.
Conclusions:
It is expected that a better knowledge about radiation-induced cancer risk among population could improve the communications skills between patients and clinicians and could help to increase the awareness in women about radiation risk perception for a transparent and proper informed choice of imaging exam.
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