Radiologists are medical doctors that specialize in diagnosing and treating injuries and diseases using medical imaging (radiology) procedures (exams/tests) such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET) and ultrasound.
Clinical radiologists use images to diagnose, treat and manage medical conditions and diseases.
Imaging is at the heart of modern medicine and is an essential part of many treatments. The clinical radiologist plays a vital role in swift and accurate diagnosis of many conditions. The job involves problem solving – examining the anatomy, pathology, clinical history and previous imaging for the patient. Selecting the appropriate techniques for diagnosis and minimising radiation exposure are all part of the role.
Clinical oncologists (rather than radiologists) use radiotherapy to treat tumours .
Clinical radiologists use various imaging techniques including:
Diagnostic radiologists, through extensive clinical work and related research, may also specialize in these radiology subspecialties: