Imagerie

Imagerie is the science and practice of creating visual representations of objects, especially living bodies, to reveal structure, function, and pathology. In medicine, imagerie covers the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of images to aid diagnosis, guide treatment, and support research. It distinguishes anatomical imaging, which depicts structural details, from functional and molecular imaging, which visualizes physiological processes and metabolic activity.

The field employs a range of imaging modalities. Common techniques include X-ray radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and nuclear medicine methods such as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET). Hybrid systems that combine modalities, such as PET/CT and PET/MRI, provide simultaneous structural and functional information.

Image acquisition uses energy sources and detectors to capture signals, which are reconstructed into interpretable images. Advanced processing can enhance contrast, reduce noise, render three-dimensional representations, or enable image fusion. Interpretation is typically performed by radiologists or subspecialists, with increasing support from computer-aided detection and diagnostic tools, including artificial intelligence.

Imagerie also encompasses interventional imaging, where real-time visualization guides procedures like biopsies, ablations, or catheter-based therapies. In research and industry, imaging extends to materials, biology, and quality control, aided by imaging informatics systems that manage data with standards such as DICOM and through practice within PACS.

Key considerations include minimizing radiation exposure, ensuring safe use of contrast agents, and maintaining standardization and reproducibility. The historical development spans Roentgen’s discovery of X-rays, the emergence of CT and MRI, and the rise of molecular imaging, with ongoing advances in quantitative imaging and AI-assisted interpretation.