Understanding Radiation Exposure: Bone Scans, Mammograms, and X-rays Explained
A mammogram with six images, along with X-rays and a bone scan? 1. The radiation dose from a bone scan (bone scintigraphy) is typically around 5 to 10 millisieverts (mSv). If you have undergone this procedure three times in three years, it is advisable to discuss your concerns wi...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
According to the information from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, a single bone scan has a radiation dose of approximately 6.3 millisieverts. A unilateral mammogram has a radiation dose of about 0.4 millisieverts. The radiation dose for a chest X-ray in both the...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure: Bone Scans, Mammograms, and X-rays Explained
Understanding Radiation Exposure from Multiple CT Scans: Risks and Safety
Computed Tomography Radiation Hello, Doctor: I underwent a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan (640 slices) in December 2023, which revealed nodules in both upper lungs, and the doctor recommended follow-up. Later, due to some health issues, I had an abdominal CT scan of the...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
According to the information from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, a single low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan has a radiation dose of approximately 2 millisieverts (mSv), while an abdominal computed tomography (including the pelvic region) has a radiation ...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure from Multiple CT Scans: Risks and Safety
Understanding X-Ray Changes: What Do Black Spots Mean?
X-ray related issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions: 1. I just looked at the X-ray taken a few days ago and noticed that it is quite different from the one taken one or two years ago. I want to ask why there is a large black area on the right side of the ...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, 1. In abdominal X-rays, the presence of black areas typically indicates air (intestinal gas). The two images show shadows of metallic foreign bodies in the pelvic cavity. A definitive diagnosis must be made by a clinician who will analyze all relevant data; it cannot be ...[Read More] Understanding X-Ray Changes: What Do Black Spots Mean?
Understanding Metal Shadows in X-rays: Common Concerns and Clarifications
Questions related to X-ray examinations? Hello Doctor, I am #209806. I have another question to ask you: The two X-rays from the previous article were taken in the same location. The X-ray taken a few days ago: https://lurl.cc/FfZEu and the X-ray taken one or two years ago: https...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, all three X-ray images have a white circular shadow in the middle at the bottom. When observing such white shadows on X-rays, one should consider the possibility of a metallic foreign body. If the patient has not undergone any surgeries, one potential reason could be an ar...[Read More] Understanding Metal Shadows in X-rays: Common Concerns and Clarifications
Understanding Radiation Exposure: LDCT vs. Standard CT for Lung Nodules
Computed Tomography Radiation Hello, Director: I previously inquired about the radiation dose from CT scans and would like to ask again if I can choose the LDCT method for monitoring a solid lung nodule on 9/23, or is it necessary to opt for a standard lung CT scan? The doctor me...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, according to the data from the American Radiologic Technologists website, the radiation dose from a single chest LDCT is approximately 2 millisieverts. In contrast, a standard chest CT scan has a radiation dose of about 7 millisieverts. For lung cancer screening, it is rec...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure: LDCT vs. Standard CT for Lung Nodules
CT Scan Frequency: Safe Interval for Lung Screening After Abdominal CT
Interval time for computed tomography (CT) scans? If I had an abdominal and pelvic CT scan in mid-March, can I still undergo a low-dose lung CT scan for health screening this year? Would the radiation exposure be too high? How long should I wait between scans? Thank you.
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, yes. The necessity of the X-ray examination is considered, and there are no restrictions on the radiation dose or the number of examinations. If there are any concerns, it is advisable to communicate with your physician before undergoing the examination. Do not avoid the e...[Read More] CT Scan Frequency: Safe Interval for Lung Screening After Abdominal CT
Understanding Radiation Exposure: Risks and Imaging Options Explained
Radiation Dose Issues Hello Doctor: 1. I have undergone X-rays and CT scans within a short period of one month, accumulating a dose of nearly 40 millisieverts. Is this considered too much radiation exposure in a short time, and does it increase my risk of developing cancer? 2...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, 1. The necessity of X-ray radiation examinations is considered, and there are no restrictions on the radiation dose or the number of examinations. Diagnostic X-rays are classified as low-dose radiation examinations and are generally considered safe according to literatur...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure: Risks and Imaging Options Explained
Understanding Radiation Exposure: Risks and Imaging Options Explained
Radiation Dose Issues Hello Doctor: 1. I have undergone X-rays and CT scans within a month, accumulating a dose of nearly 40 millisieverts. Is this amount of radiation exposure in such a short time concerning, and does it increase my risk of developing cancer? 2. Since I had a...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, 1. The necessity of X-ray radiation examinations is considered without limiting the radiation dose or the number of examinations. Diagnostic X-rays are classified as low-dose radiation examinations and are generally considered safe according to literature reports. 2. T...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure: Risks and Imaging Options Explained
Understanding Radiation Exposure: Safety Concerns and Accumulation Effects
Radiation issues In April 2024, I underwent 20 X-rays for both shoulders, neck, and spine. In mid-April, another hospital performed 10 X-rays on my neck and shoulders. At the beginning of May, I had a chest X-ray during a health check, and according to the National Health Insuran...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, the consideration for X-ray radiation examinations is based on the necessity of the examination rather than limiting the radiation dose or the number of tests. X-ray radiation is a form of energy, similar to sunlight, and does not remain in the body after exposure. After a...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure: Safety Concerns and Accumulation Effects
Understanding MRI Report Delays and Diagnostic Accuracy in Prostate Imaging
Issues with MRI reports and diagnostic accuracy? 1. Previously, I underwent a prostate MRI at a hospital and returned for a follow-up appointment on the date scheduled by the physician. However, the report was not available on that day, and the physician scheduled a second follow...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, there are many reasons why there may not be a written report following imaging examinations, which are related to the administrative processes of the hospital and the availability and training of radiologists. Different imaging modalities have their own advantages and limi...[Read More] Understanding MRI Report Delays and Diagnostic Accuracy in Prostate Imaging
Understanding Chest X-rays: Can They Detect Breast Calcifications?
Questions about X-ray examinations? Hello, doctor. 1. I previously had a chest X-ray, and the report indicated the presence of a nodule. I was referred to a pulmonologist, who initially suspected it was a nipple-related issue. Therefore, the doctor arranged for additional X-ray i...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, the detection of breast calcifications is most sensitive and accurate with mammography. If calcified granulomas form, they may be detectable on standard X-rays. Most calcified granulomas are benign findings. If you have breast-related symptoms, such as a palpable lump, pai...[Read More] Understanding Chest X-rays: Can They Detect Breast Calcifications?
Can You Get an MRI with a Metal Dental Bridge After Cancer Treatment?
Can I have an MRI with a metal dental bridge? Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer last year and have completed radiation and chemotherapy. I need to undergo an MRI of the head and neck every three months. Previously, I had to remove my metal dental bridge due...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, metals can potentially interfere with MRI imaging, affecting both the safety of the examination and the interpretation of results. Please discuss your concerns with your dentist and the physician treating your nasopharyngeal cancer. It is advisable to follow the recommenda...[Read More] Can You Get an MRI with a Metal Dental Bridge After Cancer Treatment?
Understanding Lung Nodules: X-Ray vs. CT Scan Insights
X-ray examination - nodules Hello Dr. Wang, I would like to ask: 1. In recent years, chest X-rays have consistently shown a small nodule in the right lower lung measuring approximately 0.8 cm, with no change in size. Therefore, in July 2022, I underwent a whole-body CT scan at ...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, the chest X-ray nodule you described is unlikely to be a hepatic hemangioma. Typically, a lung CT report focuses on whether there are nodules in the lung parenchyma. If nodules are consistently seen on chest X-rays but not on CT scans, it is important to consider extra-pul...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: X-Ray vs. CT Scan Insights
Understanding Low-Dose Lung CT Reports: What Do They Really Mean?
Questions about low-dose lung CT report? Hello, Director: I recently received a low-dose lung CT screening report stating "multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspicious for pneumonia or mass." I would like to ask if this refers to a solid shadow g...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, low-dose computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive examination, and its diagnostic accuracy is influenced by the nature of the lesions (location, size, tumor characteristics), patient cooperation, body habitus, and conditions during the scan, making it not 100% accurate. ...[Read More] Understanding Low-Dose Lung CT Reports: What Do They Really Mean?
Diagnosing Hand Injuries: X-Ray Insights on Fractures and Contusions
Fracture of the left metacarpal. X-ray imaging diagnosis of distal radius fracture on the right hand? Hello, I was involved in a car accident on March 20 and have been experiencing pain in both wrists. I went to the hospital for an X-ray examination, which revealed a fracture in ...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, based on the images you uploaded, there is a suspicion of fractures in both hands. The imaging report serves as one of the references for clinical physicians in their diagnosis and treatment. The radiologist may have made typographical errors, or there may be differences i...[Read More] Diagnosing Hand Injuries: X-Ray Insights on Fractures and Contusions
Understanding X-Ray Radiation Risks for Children: What Parents Should Know
Pediatric X-ray radiation concerns? Hello Doctor, our baby girl fell off the sofa when she was two months old. She had a skull X-ray (AP and lateral views) and a KUB (Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder) X-ray. At ten months old, she had a pelvis X-ray. I would like to ask how much tot...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, according to the data from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the average radiation dose for women is approximately 0.1 millisieverts for a skull X-ray, 0.7 millisieverts for an abdominal X-ray, and 0.6 millisieverts for a pelvic X-ray. The annual natural ba...[Read More] Understanding X-Ray Radiation Risks for Children: What Parents Should Know
Is Your Medical Radiation Exposure Safe? Understanding Dosage Limits and Risks
Is the level of radiation safe? Hello, I would like to ask about my total annual medical radiation exposure, which was 21 millisieverts in 2022. In August 2023, I underwent a dopamine scan, and today I had a CT scan of my head and neck. I would like to know if the 100 millisiever...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, the necessity of X-ray radiation examinations is considered without limiting the radiation dose or the number of examinations. According to the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) report 103, doses below 100 millisieverts (including single or multipl...[Read More] Is Your Medical Radiation Exposure Safe? Understanding Dosage Limits and Risks
Can Incorrect Breathing During Lung CT Cause False Shadows?
Incorrect breathing during a lung CT scan? I had a chest CT in January, and the report showed 4-5 ground-glass opacities in both lower lobes of the lungs. I am wondering if this could be due to improper breathing during the test? When I take a deep breath, I tend to forcefully co...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, the ground-glass opacities in the lungs have a very low correlation with the breath-holding situation you mentioned. It is recommended to visit a pulmonologist for a thorough evaluation and treatment. Please take this into consideration, and I wish you safety and good heal...[Read More] Can Incorrect Breathing During Lung CT Cause False Shadows?
CT Scans for Infants: Concerns About Radiation and Safety
CT scan for a five-month-old infant? I took my child to the emergency room because he was exhibiting signs of possible seizures. The doctor performed a CT scan of the brain (the child is 5 months old) due to concerns about a potential head injury. I specifically informed the phys...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, 1. A head computed tomography (CT) scan plays an irreplaceable role in the emergency department for patients with neurological dysfunction symptoms, as it quickly and accurately clarifies whether these symptoms are related to specific acute brain conditions, outperformin...[Read More] CT Scans for Infants: Concerns About Radiation and Safety
Concerns About Repeated CT Scans in Young Children: Risks and Recommendations
A one-year and four-month-old child underwent four consecutive head CT scans? Hello, my son is currently one year and four months old. He slipped and hit the back of his head in the hotel bathroom. An hour later, he vomited twice, and we immediately took him to the emergency room...
Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology
Hello, performing imaging examinations on young children who are restless and unable to cooperate poses a significant challenge for the personnel conducting the tests. The radiation dose for an adult undergoing a single head computed tomography (CT) scan is approximately 2 millis...[Read More] Concerns About Repeated CT Scans in Young Children: Risks and Recommendations