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Published on: April 17, 2012
Radiation gonad doses received by children in intravenous urography and micturition cysto-urethrography
Insights
Pediatric gonad doses during intravenous urography (IVU) and micturition cysto-urethrography (MCU) were measured. Doses varied significantly, with higher levels observed in girls during MCU, prompting risk assessments for leukemia and genetic effects.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Radiology
- Radiation Dosimetry
Background:
- Intravenous urography (IVU) and micturition cysto-urethrography (MCU) are common diagnostic procedures in children.
- Assessing radiation exposure to gonads is crucial for evaluating potential long-term health risks, including leukemia and genetic damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure and compare gonad doses in pediatric patients undergoing IVU and MCU.
- To evaluate the associated risks of leukemia and genetic damage based on measured doses.
Main Methods:
- Gonad doses were measured in 47 children during IVU and 57 children during MCU using ionization chamber dosimeters.
- Dosimeters were placed rectally in girls and on the scrotum in boys.
- Dose ranges for both procedures and sexes were recorded.
Main Results:
- During IVU, pediatric gonad doses ranged from 27 to 201 mrad in girls and 7 to 112 mrad in boys.
- During MCU, doses ranged from 53 to 1900 mrad in girls and 24 to 309 mrad in boys.
- Significant variations in gonad dose were observed between procedures and sexes, particularly higher doses in girls during MCU.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric patients undergoing IVU and MCU receive measurable gonad doses.
- Micturition cysto-urethrography (MCU) can result in higher gonad doses for girls compared to intravenous urography (IVU).
- Calculated risks for leukemia and genetic effects warrant consideration in pediatric radiation practices.
Abstract:
Measurements of gonad doses in intravenous urography (IVU) was performed on 47 children and in micturition cysto-urethrography (MCU) on 57 children. Ionization chamber dosimeters were placed rectally in girls and fixed on the scrotum in boys. Gonad dose ranged from 27 mrad to 201 mrad in girls and from 7 mrad to 112 mrad in boys during IVU; during MCU doses ranged from 53 mrad to 1900 mrad in girls and form 24 mrad to 309 mrad in boys. Risk of leukemia and genetic risk were calculated.
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Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography

