The Rôle of Mass Radiography in Tuberculosis

Abstract

The diagnosis of early tuberculosis still leaves much to be desired, in spite of the marked growth of X-ray facilities in recent years. This is largely inherent in the pathology of the disease. Radiography is only capable of recording the shadows of the moment. These may be characteristic of one or more diseases, and in the case of tuberculosis do not necessarily indicate activity. A full clinical investigation of suspicious cases is essential. Mass radiography can be carried out in various ways; of these fluoroscopy is the cheapest but does not provide a permanent record. Miniature screen photography overcomes this defect, but for use on a large scale requires special apparatus and the most careful organisation. Miniature mass radiography can provide, under favourable conditions, a rapid method of weeding out those who present abnormal skiagraphic appearances. Such suspects should be referred to a tuberculosis dispensary for detailed investigation. The re-examination of persons classed as healthy should ...