Effects of Thallium on Fetus

  I recently had a Thallium stress test and did not know I was pregnant. The dose was less than 1 RAD. I now know I was approximately 2-3 weeks pregnant at the time the test was administered. I would like to know the possible side effects on the fetus from this type of expsoure.

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

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Dear Mary,
Thank you for your question. Although this is certainly a concerning experience there is probably no harm done to the fetus.  The radiation level for a thallium test is very low and it is unlikely to cause any birth defects.  There are few studies looking at this and the recommendation is to avoid radiation if possible but low levels are probably not harmful.  The best advise is to discuss this with your OB and follow his/her recommendations.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.  Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.  The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.