Diagnostic imaging
Diagnostic imaging
Diagnostic imaging (pronunciation: /daɪəɡˈnɒstɪk ˈɪmɪdʒɪŋ/), also known as medical imaging, is a branch of medicine that uses various techniques to create images of the internal structures of the body for clinical analysis and medical intervention.
Etymology
The term "diagnostic imaging" is derived from the Greek word "diagnostikos" meaning "able to distinguish" and the Latin word "imago" meaning "picture or image".
Types of Diagnostic Imaging
Diagnostic imaging encompasses several different techniques, including:
- X-ray: This is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the body's internal structures.
- Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans use X-rays to produce cross-sectional images of the body. They provide more detailed information than standard X-rays.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body's internal structures. It is particularly useful for imaging soft tissues and organs.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the body's internal structures. It is commonly used during pregnancy to monitor the development of the fetus.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET): PET scans use a radioactive substance to create three-dimensional, color images of the functional processes within the human body.
- Nuclear Medicine: This involves the use of radioactive substances to diagnose or treat a variety of diseases.
Related Terms
- Radiology: The branch of medicine that uses radiation for the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
- Radiologist: A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging techniques.
- Radiographer: A healthcare professional who specializes in the imaging of human anatomy for diagnosis and treatment of pathology.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Diagnostic imaging
- Wikipedia's article - Diagnostic imaging
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