Diagnostic reference levels for indication-based CT categories in pediatric CT: data from an international registry.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Computed tomography (CT) radiation doses vary depending on medical indications, protocols, and local practice. Our aim is to establish diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for CT categories based on clinical indications in pediatric patients.

Materials and methods

We analyzed CT data from an international dose registry retrospectively, including scans performed in children under 18 years at 143 facilities between January 2016 and January 2021. DRLs were calculated for volumetric CT dose index (CTDI_vol), dose-length product (DLP), and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) across 14 CT categories, which reflect both the anatomic areas and radiation dose levels (low, routine, high dose) required by imaging indications within the anatomic areas. We compared the

SUBMITTER: Bos D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12634736 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature