Fundamentals of Diagnostic Imaging Terminology

Flashcards covering key terminology from the Fundamentals of Diagnostic Imaging lecture.

Sensitivity

The ability of a test to correctly identify people who have the target disorder.

Specificity

The ability of a test to correctly identify people who do not have the target disorder.

Indication

A reason to use a certain treatment or imaging modality.

Contraindication

A reason to withhold a certain treatment or imaging modality.

Relative contraindication

Use caution; may proceed if benefits outweigh risks.

Absolute contraindication

A condition that is life-threatening and should be avoided at all costs.

Risk

The probability that a certain harm will occur.

Benefit

The positive impact that will occur and its likelihood.

Risk to benefit ratio

A comparison of the likelihood of positive changes versus negative outcomes.

Atom

The basic building block of matter composed of electrons, protons, and neutrons.

Electron

A subatomic particle with one unit of a negative charge and a mass of 9.109 x 10-31 kg.

Proton

A subatomic particle with one unit of a positive charge and a mass of 1.673 x 10-27 kg.

Photon

A discrete bundle of electromagnetic energy, also known as a quantum.

Ionization

The removal of an electron from an atom.

Ionizing Radiation

Radiation with sufficient energy to ionize atoms.

Tomographic Imaging

Imaging using slices or sections, such as MRI or CT.

Orthogonal views

Two imaging views at 90 degrees to each other.

Radiolucent/lucency

An area appearing dark on an exposed image, easily penetrated by x-ray.

Radiopaque/opacity

An area appearing light or white on an exposed image, obstructing x-ray passage.

Sclerotic

An increase in bone density, appearing whiter or more opaque than normal.

Sclerosis

An increase in fibrous tissue in a specific area, such as in bones.