What is Radiology?

Radiology, a medical specialty utilizing imaging technology, is instrumental in diagnosing and treating diseases. It is broadly categorized into diagnostic and interventional radiology. Radiologists, the medical doctors specializing in this field, are experts in interpreting these medical images.

Known as diagnostic imaging, radiology involves various tests that capture images of the body's internal structures. The two main branches, diagnostic and interventional radiology, employ radiant energy for disease diagnosis and treatment. Common imaging exams include X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, CT scans, and PET scans.

Radiologists examine the results of imaging tests to identify pertinent images that support a diagnosis. These professionals are typically medical doctors with advanced training in medical image interpretation. Radiologic technologists complement this work by operating and overseeing the imaging equipment. Following imaging tests, radiologists provide interpretive reports to the referring physicians.

Radiology is pivotal across all health care sectors, including surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, oncology, trauma response, emergency medicine, and infectious disease. Early and accurate diagnosis, such as in cancer cases, can be life-saving. Primary care and emergency physicians depend on radiology for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.

Radiology's applications are diverse, categorized by radiology type and specific imaging tests used. Imaging exams range from radiographs, which examine bones, the chest, or abdomen, to CT scans that capture multiple X-ray perspectives using a doughnut-shaped apparatus.