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Medical x-ray exposure of the human embryo and fetus
In a period of 2 yr. 6 pregnant women who were not aware that they were pregnant at the time of radiological examination of their abdomen and pelvis, wanted to know the radiation dose received by their embryo or fetus. Radiation dose estimate to the embryo or fetus was made by performing dosimetry with a phantom and the equipment utilized for the actual procedure. The dose to the embryo or fetus varied between less than 50 mrads and 3.52 rads when fluoroscopy was also performed. As the radioimmunoassay test now enables immediate, (same day) detection of pregnancy after day 21 of the menstrual cycle, it is reasonable to recommend that (1) the test be performed in all patients whose pregnancy status is uncertain and (2) that a positive result will ensure minimization of any necessary diagnostic radiation dose. The risk to the embryo or fetus is discussed.
In a period of 2 yr. 6 pregnant women who were not aware that they were pregnant at the time of radiological examination of their abdomen and pelvis, wanted to know the radiation dose received by their embryo or fetus. Radiation dose estimate to the embryo or fetus was made by performing dosimetry with a phantom and the equipment utilized for the actual procedure. The dose to the embryo or fetus varied between less than 50 mrads and 3.52 rads when fluoroscopy was also performed. As the radioimmunoassay test now enables immediate, (same day) detection of pregnancy after day 21 of the menstrual cycle, it is reasonable to recommend that (1) the test be performed in all patients whose pregnancy status is uncertain and (2) that a positive result will ensure minimization of any necessary diagnostic radiation dose. The risk to the embryo or fetus is discussed.