A histogram in digital radiography refers to what?

A histogram in digital radiography is best understood as a bar graph that represents the distribution of signal intensities across an image. This graphical representation helps radiologists and technologists assess the exposure levels and contrast in the image.

In this context, the histogram displays the number of pixels at each intensity level, which can indicate whether the image is underexposed, overexposed, or optimal. By analyzing the histogram, practitioners can make informed decisions on how to adjust imaging techniques or settings to achieve the best possible diagnostic image.

In summary, a histogram serves as a vital tool in interpreting image quality by visually communicating how exposure levels are spread across the various intensity values in an image. Understanding histograms is crucial for optimizing the imaging process and ensuring accurate diagnoses.