ASSESSMENT OF RADIATION DOSES, ASSOCIATED FACTORS, AND INDICATIONS FOR PEDIATRIC HEAD CT SCANS AT KILIMANJARO CHRISTIAN MEDICAL CENTER (KCMC), TANZANIA.

Joseph Mayanga; Clement Kalambo; Felister Uisso; Stephen Gondwe; Adnan Sadiq

doi:10.5455/ajdi.20250930050245

Abstract
Objective: To evaluate ionizing radiation doses, associated factors, and clinical indications for pediatric head computed tomography (CT) scans performed at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Tanzania.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 495 pediatric head CT scans performed between 2020 and 2023 at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre was conducted. Data included CTDI-vol, DLP, estimated effective dose, patient demographics, scan protocols, and clinical indications. Multivariate regression identified predictors of dose variation. International diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) served as benchmarks.
Results: Infants (<1 year) received the highest effective dose (6.5 mSv), while adolescents (11–15 years) had the lowest (2.4 mSv). Contrast use, younger age, and indications such as hydrocephalus and trauma were significantly associated with elevated radiation exposure. Trauma (35.8%), hydrocephalus (18.4%), and tumors (15.2%) were the most frequent indications. While CTDI-vol and DLP values were generally within international DRLs, effective doses in younger children exceeded global benchmarks.
Conclusion: Pediatric head CT scans at KCMC demonstrate age-dependent dose variability, with infants receiving disproportionately higher effective doses. Optimizing scan protocols and increasing awareness of alternative imaging modalities are essential to minimize radiation risks in pediatric populations.

Key words: Pediatric CT, Ionizing Radiation, Diagnostic Reference Levels, KCMC, Tanzania