Medical images and automated interpretation.

The application of automated interpretation to medical images is discussed and the main methods of medical imaging are briefly described. The factors behind the process of human clinical interpretation are also considered. Because human interpretation can be aided by processing of the raw image, the standard methods of image processing are mentioned. Automated interpretation of images in other fields is relevant, and segmentation of images is an important initial part of the process. There are already some applications of automated interpretation of medical images. Some are more complete than others. This will undoubtedly be an important developing field of work which will draw on experience from other areas, and be spurred on by the increasing complexity of medical imaging methods and shortage of expertise for human interpretation.