The following information was received from the state of
Arkansas via email:
UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) reported to Arkansas Radiation Control Program on May 27, 2022, that three (3) persons (radiation workers), acting under verbal orders, volunteered to be injected as test subjects for the evaluation of two (2) different PET/CT scanners with F-18 FDG.
As part of an investigation, radiation exposure calculations were performed, and results submitted for review. It has been determined that the limit for public dose as defined in 10 CFR 20.1003 and stated in RH-1208.a., was exceeded.
Reporting Requirement: Arkansas State Board of Health Rules for Control of Sources of Ionizing Radiation RH-1504.a.2.d and 10 CFR Part 20.2203(a)(2)(iv).
The NRC HOO was notified by email of this discovery on July 5, 2022.
- * * UPDATE ON 2/15/2023 AT 1348 EST FROM ANGELA MINDEN TO KAREN COTTON * * *
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) reported that three radiation workers volunteered to be injected with F-18 FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) and scanned in order to compare the image quality of an existing and a new PET/CT scanner. The events occurred between 4/13/2022 and 4/15/2022. As part of the investigation, radiation exposure calculations were performed by a contractor of the licensee, and the results were submitted for Arkansas Department of Health review. The activities of F-18 FDG received by the three physicians were 408.85 MBq (11.05 mCi), 392.2 MBq (10.6 mCi), and 403.3 (10.9 mCi). TEDEs of 24.1 mSv (2,410 mrem), 25.1 mSv (2,510 mrem), and 20.1 mSv (2,010 mrem) were received from x-ray and F-18 FDG combined, respectively. The PET-only TEDEs were 6.1 mSv (610 mrem), 5.2 mSv (520 mrem), and 6.3 mSv (630 mrem), respectively. The estimated doses exceed the limits for an individual member of the public and are therefore considered a reportable event under RH-1504.a.2.D. [10 CFR 20.2203(a)(1)(iv)].
NMED Number: 2203303