Contrast
Contrast (medical)
Contrast (pronounced: /ˈkɒntrɑːst/) in the medical field refers to the difference in visual properties that makes an object (or its representation in an image) distinguishable from other objects and the background. In medical imaging, contrast agents are substances used to increase the contrast of structures or fluids within the body in medical imaging.
Etymology
The term "contrast" originates from the Latin word "contra stare", meaning "to stand against". It was first used in the context of art in the 18th century to describe the difference in color that makes an object distinguishable from other objects and the background.
Contrast Agents
Contrast agents are substances used to enhance the visibility of internal structures in X-ray based imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and radiography. They work by altering the way that X-rays or other types of radiation interact with the body, increasing the contrast between the area of interest and the surrounding tissues.
Types of Contrast
There are several types of contrast used in medical imaging, including:
- Iodinated contrast: This is the most commonly used type of contrast agent for CT scans. It is a type of contrast that contains iodine, which blocks X-rays.
- Barium sulfate contrast: This type of contrast is used in X-ray imaging of the digestive system.
- Gadolinium contrast: This is a type of contrast used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Related Terms
- Radiology: The medical specialty that uses medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases within the body.
- Computed Tomography (CT): A type of imaging that uses special x-ray equipment to make cross-sectional pictures of your body.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A type of imaging that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within your body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Contrast
- Wikipedia's article - Contrast
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