Book excerpt: Rely on this practical guide to the role of medical imaging in the diagnosis and treatment of common diseases and disorders. Follow its symptoms-based approach to learn when medical imaging is appropriate, what the ideal study may be for a specific clinical problem, how to interpret an official report on a radiologic study, what the possible appropriate next steps are, and how radiologic results may (or may not) alter clinical management of your patient. Case studies in each chapter present typical patients with accompanying radiologic reports. Actual images of superb clarity show you the potential of contemporary techniques. Master the basics of medical imaging in patient care, the physical principles underlying imaging modalities—including conventional radiology, CT, MRI, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine scans—as well as common pitfalls.