Entrance skin dose

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 17 Jun 2021

The entrance skin dose (or entrance surface dose), abbreviated as ESD, is the measure of the radiation dose that is absorbed (measured in milligray) by the skin as it reaches the patient. Entrance skin dose is a directly measurable quantity, often, measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD) 1. Entrance skin dose is often a benchmark measurement used to assist in quality control and optimisation in radiography departments. However, it is a poor indication of radiation risk as it does not account for tissue sensitivity, penetration and area of the x-ray beam

They are used in plain radiography to set diagnostic reference levels (DRLs), a reference level that establishes a benchmark for the optimisation in using medical radiation, ensuring departments adhere to the principles of radiation protection 2.

At the time of writing this article (April, 2017) the following entrance skin dose recommendations for an adult of average size (70-80 kg) in plain radiography exist set by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency 3

  • skull AP/PA:  3 mGy
  • skull lateral: 1.5 mGy
  • chest PA: 0.2 mGy
  • chest lateral: 1.0 mGy
  • thoracic spine AP: 3.5 mGy
  • thoracic spine lateral: 10 mGy
  • lumbar spine AP: 6 mGy
  • lumbar spine lateral: 14 mGy 
  • lumbar spine spot: 26 mGy
  • abdomen AP: 6 mGy
  • pelvis AP: 4 mGy

Factors that contribute to an increase in entrance skin dose include body habitus (obese patients can have a dose increase reaching factors of 80) and poor radiographic positioning 3.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.