Local diagnostic reference levels (LDRLs) for full-field digital mammography (FFDM) and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) procedures in Morocco

Abstract

IntroductionThe objective of this study was to establish local diagnostic reference levels (LDRLs) for the full-field digital mammography (FFDM) and tomosynthesis (DBT) in Moroccan health facilities. MethodsData from 146 women were collected from three facilities. The proposed DRLs were defined as the 75th percentile of the mean average glandular dose (AGD) distribution. ResultsThe mean AGD recorded in this study for the three centers was 1.47 mGy for all centers, and 1.42 mGy and 1.64 mGy for the CC and MLO projections, respectively. The mean compressed breast thickness (CBT) values recorded in this current study were 55 mm, the LDRLs reported for all centers was 1.7 mGy, the CC projection was 1.6 mGy, and the MLO projection was 1.8 mGy. In addition, the LDRLs reported in the current study were compared with those from previous studies for other countries, including the United Kingdom, Japan, Ghana, and Sri Lanka. ConclusionThis work provides an assessment of local DRLs for mammography in Morocco and is suggested as a starting point that will allow professionals to evaluate and optimize their practice. Furthermore, the definition of national DRLs is a necessary process in optimizing Moroccan medical exposures.