Question
Can a brain CT scan for a child cause significant harm to the body?
Answer
According to current medical research, the radiation dose produced by brain CT scans is very low, and the risk for children is extremely minimal. In most cases, the benefits of this examination far outweigh the potential risks. However, like any medical procedure, brain CT scans are not without risk. In rare cases, radiation may slightly increase the future risk of cancer, but this risk is very low, especially for a single scan. Parents should discuss the necessity of this test with their doctor, weigh the pros and cons, and decide whether to proceed with the scan.