Assessment of Low-Dose Computed Tomography Protocols in Reducing Radiation Exposure without Compromising Diagnostic Yield in Pulmonary Nodule Detection

Background: Pulmonary nodules are often the earliest radiological markers of lung cancer and their timely detection is essential for improving survival outcomes. While Computed Tomography (CT) remains the gold standard for nodule detection, concerns regarding cumulative radiation exposure have led to increasing use of Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT). Objective: This study aimed to assess whether LDCT protocols can effectively reduce radiation exposure without compromising diagnostic yield in pulmonary nodule detection. Methodology: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Radiology at Hail city from Jan 2025 to July 2025, including 75 patients aged ≥18 years who underwent CT chest for pulmonary nodule evaluation. Each patient received both standard-dose CT and LDCT protocols. Radiation dose was recorded in millisieverts (mSv) and two blinded radiologists independently reviewed the scans for presence, size and type of nodules. Standard-dose CT served as the reference standard. Results: The mean radiation dose for standard CT was 6.8±1.2 mSv, while LDCT reduced exposure to 1.9±0.5 mSv, representing a 72% dose reduction (p