HST - Medical Imaging Vocab

Angiogram

An X-ray or computer image of the blood vessels, typically using a dye injected through a catheter, used to check for aneurysms, blockages, or other vascular problems.

Endoscopy

A procedure using an endoscope (a flexible tube with a camera) to visually examine the inside of a body cavity or organ, often used for diagnosis or minor surgery like polyp removal.

Barium

A silver-white metallic element often compounded as barium sulfate, which is used as a radiopaque contrast agent to coat the digestive tract for better visibility during X-ray or CT scan imaging.

Malignant

A term used to describe cancer, signifying that the cells are characterized by uncontrolled, aggressive growth and the ability to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body (metastasis).

Radiography

A procedure that uses high-energy radiation, such as X-rays, to create images of the inside of the body to help diagnose disease and plan treatment.

Benign

A term used to describe a condition, tumor, or growth that is not cancerous, meaning it does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body.

Stent

A small, metallic tube (or one made of other materials) that is placed into a hollow structure like a blood vessel, ureter, or airway to hold it open and prevent re-narrowing, which is used to treat blockages or weaknesses.

Lumbar

An adjective used to refer to or constitute the lower section of the spine between the thoracic vertebrae and sacrum, commonly known as the lower back or loins.

Contrast material

A dye or other substance administered by injection, enema, or mouth, which is used with imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to highlight specific organs, blood vessels, or abnormal areas for better visualization.

Pacemaker

An electronic device implanted in the body that sends electrical pulses to the heart to help it beat at a normal rate and rhythm, primarily used to treat certain types of arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms).

AP

Anteroposterior: Image taken from the front to back.

Ba E

Barium enema: X-ray exam of the colon, liquid barium is used as a contrast medium.

CT/CAT

Computerized (Axial) tomography: series of X-ray exams that creates cross-sectional images for more detailed examination.

CXR

Chest X-ray: common test used for diagnosing disease or injury in the thoracic region.

Fx

Fracture: any break in a bone, various types of fracture.

IVP

Intravenous pyelogram: X-ray of the urinary tract, an iodine-based dye is injected into a vein and it travels to the urinary tract to act as a contrast medium.

LAT

Lateral: image taken from the side.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging: a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer produce detailed images.

PET

Positron emission tomography: a special dye with radioactive tracers is introduced into the body and an image is taken, this exam evaluates the user and organ function; common to detect cancer.

UGI

Upper Gastrointestinal (Series): real-time X-ray fluoroscopy with barium contrast material to produce images of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.