FDA Investigating Excess Radiation During CT Brain Scans

Physician's First Watch for December 8, 2009
David G. Fairchild, MD, MPH, Editor-in-Chief
The FDA has identified nearly 260 patients who were exposed to up to eight times the expected level of radiation during CT perfusion scans of the brain, the agency announced on Monday.
The problem was first noted in October, when it was discovered that 206 patients had radiation overexposure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles during an 18-month period. Since then, the FDA has learned of "at least 50" additional cases involving more than one scanner manufacturer and is investigating cases in other states. Some patients have reported hair loss and skin redness after their scans.
To prevent additional problems, the FDA has issued interim recommendations for imaging facilities, such as reviewing whether patients have had excess radiation exposure and reexamining radiation dosing protocols.
FDA news release (Free)
Associated Press story (Free)