[Indications for CT examination of the head in infants and young children].

308 CT scans of the head in children below 3 years of age were analysed. 70% of children were younger than 1 year. The most common findings in this age group were subdural effusions (usually no wider than 10 mm) and hydrocephalus. The authors conclude that the indications to CT scan should be more rigorous because of the high dose of the ionizing radiation applied. Ultrasonography should be the initial investigation in the children with persistent fontanellae+ as it has a similar diagnostic efficiency without harmful effect to the child body.