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Radiology
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New methods for viewing diseased structures inside the body improved
diagnosis of disease beginning in the 1970s. A gamma camera detects
radioactive medication that attaches to certain forms of cancer
cells. Computed tomography (CT) scanners use X rays to produce lifelike
three-dimensional images of body structures. Magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) scanners produce highly detailed images without X
rays. Positron emission tomography (PET) detects very early warning
signs of disease. Sonograms, or ultrasound, taken with high-frequency
sound waves diagnose disease and monitor the progress of pregnancies.
X rays and high-energy particles emitted by linear accelerators
also are used to treat cancer. Lithotripsy uses high-frequency sound
waves to destroy some kidney stones and gallstones, conditions that
once required surgery.
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