Dicom

DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) is a standard for handling, storing, printing, and transmitting information in medical imaging. It includes a file format definition and a network communications protocol. The communication protocol is an application protocol that uses TCP/IP to communicate between systems. DICOM files can be exchanged between two entities that are capable of receiving image and patient data in DICOM format.

History

DICOM was developed by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR). The first version of the standard was released in 1985, and it has since undergone several revisions to accommodate advancements in medical imaging technology.

Features

DICOM has several key features that make it essential in the field of medical imaging:

• Interoperability: DICOM ensures that medical imaging devices from different manufacturers can communicate and exchange data seamlessly.
• Data Integrity: It maintains the integrity of patient data and imaging information.
• Security: DICOM includes provisions for data security and patient privacy.
• Scalability: The standard supports a wide range of imaging modalities and can be scaled to accommodate new technologies.

Components

DICOM consists of several components:

• DICOM File Format: Defines how images and related information are stored in files.
• DICOM Network Protocol: Defines how images and related information are transmitted over a network.
• DICOM Services: Includes services for image storage, retrieval, query, and printing.

Applications

DICOM is used in various medical imaging modalities, including:

• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound
• X-ray
• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiotherapy

DICOM Conformance

Manufacturers of medical imaging equipment provide a DICOM Conformance Statement, which details the DICOM capabilities of their products. This ensures that their equipment can interoperate with other DICOM-compliant systems.

Related Technologies

• HL7: A set of international standards for the exchange, integration, sharing, and retrieval of electronic health information.
• PACS: Picture Archiving and Communication System, used for storing and accessing medical images.
• RIS: Radiology Information System, used for managing radiological data and workflows.

See Also

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Health Level 7
• Picture Archiving and Communication System
• Radiology Information System