CT scanning technology is a valuable tool to diagnose many diseases; however, the level of the radiation
dose is a source of concern, especially for children. CT scan systems and dose measurement methods have evolved over
the years; but reported pediatric effective doses (EDs) have sometimes exceeded the annual dose limit recommended
by the ICRP (1 mSv per year for persons under 18 years) (ICRP, 2007a). Efforts have been made to reduce organ doses
and EDs by adjusting the scan parameters. This paper describes the determinants of the ED, and the dose reduction
techniques in pediatric imaging from the early age of CT examinations until now. The first epidemiological results
regarding the associated risk of cancer are also briefly presented.
