Description: DICOM, which stands for Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine, is an international standard used for the transmission, storage, and sharing of medical images and related data. This protocol allows different devices and systems from various manufacturers to communicate with each other, ensuring interoperability in the healthcare field. DICOM encompasses not only images, such as X-rays, computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging, but also includes information about patients, studies, and procedures, making it a comprehensive tool for managing medical data. Key features of DICOM include its ability to handle images from multiple modalities, its file structure that allows for the inclusion of metadata, and its focus on the security and privacy of patient information. The relevance of DICOM lies in its widespread adoption in healthcare facilities worldwide, facilitating collaboration among healthcare professionals and improving the quality of medical diagnosis and treatment.
History: DICOM was developed in the 1980s by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) in collaboration with the medical community. The first DICOM standard was published in 1985, and since then it has evolved through multiple versions, incorporating new technologies and needs from the healthcare sector. In 1993, DICOM became an internationally recognized standard by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), solidifying its global use.
Uses: DICOM is primarily used in the field of radiology and medical imaging, allowing the integration of different imaging modalities into a single system. It is also applied in telemedicine, where images can be shared and analyzed remotely. Furthermore, DICOM is essential in clinical data management, facilitating access to patient information and improving diagnostic efficiency.
Examples: A practical example of DICOM is its use in a hospital where imaging studies are performed. Images from an MRI scan are generated on a scanner and sent to a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) using the DICOM protocol. Radiologists can access these images from different workstations for diagnosis. Another example is telemedicine, where a doctor can receive DICOM images from a patient in a remote location for evaluation.
