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The Effects of CT Scans on Children

For an active child, cuts, bruises and even a broken bones are a normal part of childhood. But, when a child experiences a more serious injury or condition, a physician may order a CT scan as part of the diagnostic process. Are there valid reasons for parents to be concerned about the health effects of CT scans performed on children?

  1. Radiation Exposure

    • CT scans (also known as CAT scans) create 3-dimensional pictures using ionizing radiation. On a daily basis, the average person is exposed to naturally occurring radiation. However, the amount of radiation used in a CT scan is significantly more than other diagnostic tests. According to the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging, a CT scan of the head exposes a child to the amount of radiation she would naturally experience during approximately eight months. An abdominal CT scan exposes a child to the amount of radiation she would naturally experience during approximately 20 months. On the other hand, a chest X-ray doses a child with the amount of radiation she would naturally experience in about one day. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ionizing radiation is a potent carcinogen, meaning it causes cancer.

    Radiation Sensitivity

    • The Radiological Society of North America states that children are more sensitive to radiation exposure than adults. This sensitivity is a result of the rapid cell division that occurs in a growing child. In particular, children's thyroid glands, bone marrow and gonads are especially sensitive to the carcinogenic effect of radiation. Another concern is cumulative radiation exposure. Compared to an adult, a child has a greater length of time to accumulate radiation during their lifetime. Each diagnostic imaging study contributes to a child's cumulative exposure.

    Immediate Side Effects

    • In addition to the possible long term health effects of CT scans, there are immediate side effects that should be considered. If a contrast material is administered, there is a small chance that a child may experience an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can be severe; however, the medical staff should be prepared to handle them. Parents should notify the doctor of any known allergies, recent illnesses or other medical conditions, as these can increase the risk of an allergic reaction. If a child is sedated or anesthetized, this presents possible complications which should be discussed with the doctor.

    Conclusion

    • Good communication is essential to getting the best possible health care. When a CT scan is requested by a doctor, discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives with the doctor. Notify the physician of the child's complete medical history, including any prior X-ray, CT scan, MRI or ultrasound examinations. Avoid duplicating diagnostic tests. Make an informed decision based on whether the benefits of a CT scan outweigh the potential health risks.

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