CT scan in kids may be a double-edged sword!

With the advent of newer technology, there is a greater tendency amongst patients and doctors to demand that there should be a complete diagnosis and evaluation for even the most trivial of complaints. This attitude results in a plethora of investigations. Like everything else in life, this, too, comes at a price. The indiscriminate use of a CT scan (especially of the head for minor trauma) has dramatically increased the risk of developing cancer subsequently. [1]

So what should you do?

I think one needs to be sensible and discuss with your doctor whether a particular investigation is required. If not essential, one must assess the risks and benefits of doing and not doing the study. One should also try to find alternatives to the proposed investigation.

1. CT Scans May Increase Cancer Risk in Children, Adolescents