Avoid CT scan for tumour detection in kids: Expert

Avoid CT scan for tumour detection in kids: Expert 

MRI BETTER OPTION 22.09.2024 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK Lucknow : Tumours can develop in liver, brain, and other organs in children, and it is advisable to avoid CT scans for detecting such conditions, according to experts. Speaking at the 22nd Annual National Conference of the Indian Society of Pediatric Radiology, head of radio diagnosis department at the King George’s Medical University (KGMU), said that MRI and ultrasound examinations could effectively identify these diseases while minimizing radiation exposure to children. 

“A single CT scan exposes a patient to radiation equivalent to about 400 X-rays, and repeated CT scans can be detrimental to health. Alternative diagnostic methods can be employed for many diseases, allowing for accurate identification without risk,” Dr Parihar said. He recommended that CT scans in children should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. 

“When required, a direct assessment with contrast agents is preferable to minimize radiation exposure from plain CT scans. For detecting brain tumours, MRI is abetter option due to its lower radiation risk, while ultrasound can be used to identify lumps or tumours in liver,” he said. Other experts including Dr Ajay Taranath, Dr Steven Cross, Dr Karuna Shekhdar, Dr Ajay D’Souza, and Dr Prakash Masand addressed critical aspects of paediatric neuro-radiology, paediatric cardio-thoracic, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal radiology.