A roentgenographic film density measurement of human biologic structures

Abstract

1. 1. With a conventional source of illumination as one of several standards for the examination of roentgenograms, a quantitative modification of the roentgenographic image of human biologic structures has been observed and measured in dental roentgenograms of variable density. 2. 2. Further observations have been made under the provisions stipulated and a light-density roentgenogram of a biologic structure has experimentally demonstrated acceptable outline form of the specimen, a measurable lack of definition/detail of component structures, inadequate contrast, and an incorrect diagnostic impression of mineralization. A dark-density roentgenogram of the same biologic structure has experimentally presented a measurable diminution of the outline form of the specimen and internal structures, adequate contrast, and an incorrect diagnostic impression of demineralization or resorptive processes. An optimal-density roentgenogram of the experimental biologic structure has established accurate outline form of the specimen, acceptable definition/detail of component structures, adequate contrast, and a correct diagnostic impression of mineralization. 3. 3. In addition to other technical factors, serial or periodic roentgenograms should be of uniform film density for the observation and evaluation of any tissue change.