Radiology Glossary
Medical terminology can be overwhelming. Browse our comprehensive dictionary of diagnostic imaging terms to understand your scan better.
Expertly Reviewed
Updated May 2026Dr. Avinash Kelkar, Chief Radiologist Director
The diagnostic imaging information on this page has been comprehensively reviewed for clinical accuracy by Omega PDS directors. All scan protocols and safety guidelines align with established clinical standards and over 33 years of institutional experience.
Key Terms A-Z
Angiography
A specialized medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside, or lumen, of blood vessels and organs of the body.
Artifact
A distortion or anomaly in an image that is not representative of the actual anatomical structure, often caused by patient movement or metallic objects.
Bore
The tubular opening in an MRI or CT scanner where the patient rests during the imaging procedure.
Computed Tomography (CT)
An imaging method combining multiple X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional 3D images of internal organs, bones, and tissues.
Contrast Material
A substance (often iodine or gadolinium-based) injected or swallowed to enhance the visibility of specific structures or fluids within the body during a scan.
Gadolinium
A non-radioactive chemical element strictly used as the basis for the contrast agents administered during MRI scans to increase image clarity.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
A non-invasive, radiation-free imaging technology that utilizes powerful magnets and radiofrequency pulses to yield incredibly detailed soft-tissue images.
MDCT (Multi-Detector CT)
An advanced, high-speed CT scanner equipped with multiple rows of detectors that can capture many cross-sectional slices simultaneously.
Radiologist
A specialized medical doctor who undergoes years of advanced training to accurately interpret diagnostic images and diagnose diseases.
Tesla (T)
The standard unit of measurement signifying the strength of a magnetic field. Higher Tesla units (e.g., 3T) indicate stronger magnets yielding clearer MRI images.