Diagnostic imaging and radiation dosimetry in medicine

Abstract

Imaging and dosimetry are two complementary aspects in diagnostic radiology medical physics (DRMP). One deals with the production of two-dimensional and three-dimensional representations which aid in the diagnosis of disease. The other deals with the measurement of ionizing radiation in matter and in tissue. The production of images of diagnostic quality involves delivery of sufficient amounts ionizing radiation; dosimetry and imaging are therefore inseparable. While optimization has always been a watchword in medical imaging, the line between sufficient and insufficient diagnostic quality has been difficult to draw because of the risks to patients. The development of imaging modalities using ionizing radiation will be discussed here together with the development of dosimetric methods employed to reduce unnecessary exposure to both patients and practitioners. The resulting interaction between imaging and dosimetry is one of the most active areas of medical physics research today.