A rational approach to the clinical use of cumulative effective dose estimates

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2011 Jul;197(1):160-2. doi: 10.2214/AJR.10.6195.

Abstract

Objective: This article will address ongoing efforts to track cumulative dose estimates of patient radiation exposure that have the potential to transform radiation protection research.

Conclusion: There is no clear consensus on how to use this information clinically. A rational consideration of this question reveals that until the linear no-threshold model is supplanted, cumulative dose estimates are of little clinical relevance and never constitute a logical reason to avoid an imaging evaluation that is otherwise medically indicated.

MeSH terms

  • Body Burden
  • Computer Simulation
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological*
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / etiology
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / prevention & control*
  • Radiation Dosage*
  • Radiography / adverse effects*
  • Radiometry / methods*
  • Risk Assessment / methods*
  • United States