DICOM: The Future of Medical Imaging
One of the most common file extensions used in medicine is the DICOM file extension. The standard DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) format is used primarily for storing X-rays, ultrasounds and other types of medical imaging. This file extension can also be used to store patient data along with the image.
History and Format
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) was the organization that originally created the DICOM file format. The goal for NEMA was to create a standardized file extension for use across all medical fields. This allows patient image files to be easily shared with doctors and researchers. The way the DICOM format was created also helps to include both an image and a descriptive header. Large DICOM files also have the ability to be compressed to save space.
Viewing DICOM Files
Medical professionals working in private practices or hospitals will have access to a number of programs that are compatible with the DICOM file format. These programs allow viewing and editing of any DICOM file. There are also free DICOM viewer programs available for Windows including ezDICOM and XnView.
Variations and Related Files
DICOM files do not always have to use the full DICOM extension in order to work. Some common variations of the DICOM extension include DCM and .dic. The DCM variation is associated with the program DiskCatalogMaker. The file extension .dic can be used as a DICOM variation although it is better associated with common dictionary files.
The ACR file extension can also be related to DICOM files. The ACR extension is used with the American College of Radiology, though the ACR extension may not always indicate that the file is a DICOM.
Related articles
- File Extension List (arnoldit.com)
Jorge is a software programmer for a technology company that specializes in teleradiology solutions. He spends his free time researching and commenting on medical technology blogs.












