A barcode is an information code with a linear sequence of machine-readable elements. The elements are made up of rectangular black bars and white spaces between the bars. In document imaging, barcodes are typically used to encode index data and/or separate documents.

This term usually refers to the storage of patient data and images. Images are best archived in digital form (e.g., on optical disks, DVDs, PACS systems) and not only on films (hard copies, prints). Data compression via a reduction in matrix size, pixel depth or CT numbers, will result in a loss of spatial and contrast resolution. Digital images should be converted into a universal format such as DICOM. Raw data saving is necessary when additional image reconstructions are required.

See also Picture Archiving and Communication System, and Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine.

On October 19, 2001, Philips Medical Systems completed an acquisition strategy through its purchase of Marconi Medical Systems.
The History of Marconi Medical Systems
2001 Royal Philips Electronics and Marconi plc announced that Philips has agreed to acquire Marconi Medical Systems for $1.1 billion.
2000 Marconi introduces Infinite Detector Technology for Mx8000 multislice CT scanner, which acquires an unprecedented 16 simultaneous slices with sub-millimeter isotropic accuracy.
1999 At RSNA, Picker International unveils the new Marconi Medical Systems name and corporate vision.
1998 Picker International acquires the Computed Tomography Division of Elscint Ltd, immediately positioning Picker at the forefront of major global CT suppliers.
1986 Picker produces the industry's first 1.0T MR imager.
1981 Picker is sold to General Electric Co. Ltd. of England (GEC). Picker merged with Cambridge Instruments, GEC Medical, and American Optical to form Picker International.
1967 The name changed from Picker x-ray to Picker Corporation. Picker acquired Dunlee.
1946 The Dunlee Corporation started in Chicago by Dunmore Dunk and Zed. J. Atlee to meet demand for quality x-ray tubes and special purpose tubes.
1915 James Picker Company formed in New York City offering sales and service of x-ray equipment, film and accessories.

(PACS) Picture Archiving and Communication System is an IT-based storage and retrieval system for digital images.

See also Radiology Information System and Digital Imaging And Communications In Medicine.

Cancer is a general term related to the abnormal (malignant) growth of cells (tumor) which tend to proliferate uncontrolled and destroy healthy tissues. If not controlled by effective treatment, cancer can spread out into other regions of the body (metastasize).
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): A form of breast carcinoma in situ confined to the breast ducts. DCIS (also called noninvasive breast cancer or intraductal breast carcinoma) is often associated with microcalcification on mammography.