Diagnostic Reference Levels for Paediatric Radiography of Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis in the UK: �Optimising Radiation Protection

The Health Protection Agency’s latest dose review1 made recommendations for acceptable Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) for 52 types of examinations. Of the 52, only 5 relate to paediatric examinations, none of which relate to single radiograph examinations. While European paediatric DRLs are available,2 they are considered unreliable and outdated.3,4 Furthermore, DRLs, as defined by ICRP,5 are intended to be specific to country or region. The establishment of National paediatric DRLs for common plain film examinations are therefore of significant importance. Without such guidance there is potential for Employers across the UK to establish local DRLs that are essentially too high to detect recurrent over exposures to this vulnerable patient group.To establish National DRLs (NDRLs) for standard paediatric radiography examinations of the chest, abdomen and pelvis in the UK.To collect UK paediatric dose data in relation to examination type and body part thickness.To use National Radiological Protection Board /HPA recommendations1,6 to establish NDRLs based on the 75th percentile of data collected.