Physical methods for dose determinations in mammography

There is small but significant risk of radiation induced carcinogenesis associated with mammography. High quality mammography is the best method of early breast cancer detection. Besides, image as a basic requirement for an effective diagnosis, radiation protection principles require the radiation dose to the imaged tissue to be as low as compatible with required image quality. Glandular tissues is the most radiosensitive, thus the evaluation of Mean Glandular Dose (MGD) is the most relevant factor for estimation of radiation risk as well as the comparison of performance at different mammographic machines. MGD was estimated using Entrance Surface Air KERMA at the breast surface Kf measured free in air and appropriate conversation factors. Under evaluation were eight mammographic machines at institute of radiology, Skopje and mammographic machines at the Health's centers in Vevchani, Bitola, Prilep, Negotino and Shtip. Estimated values of MGD do not exceed the European reference level (<2mGy), but it can not be generally concluded for all mammography units in Macedonia, until their examination. In the near future all mammography units will be subject of Q C tests and dose measurements. (Author)