The formation of images in diagnostic radiology involves a complex interdep
endence of many factors. The ideal balance is to obtain an image which is a
dequate for the clinical purpose with the minimum radiation dose. Factors w
hich affect radiation dose and image quality can be grouped under three hea
dings; radiation quality, photon fluence and removal of scattered radiation
. If optimal performance is to be achieved, it is necessary to understand h
ow these factors influence image formation and affect radiation dose, and a
pply methodology for image quality and dose analysis at each stage in the d
evelopment and use of X-ray equipment. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All r
ights reserved.