X-ray spectra and image quality in mammography

For the early detection of breast cancer, the display of both low-contrast soft-tissue structures and of very small microcalcifications is essential. The requirements imposed on a radiographic system with respect to radiation quality, unit geometry, and radiographic imaging device can be derived from this necessity. X-ray spectra can be optimized with regard to image quality and radiation exposure by using k-edge filtration together with a tungsten tube. For theoretical considerations the quality number, defined as the quotient of the square of the contrast and the radiation exposure, is calculated. The results of studies on phantoms and in clinical mammography are presented. Remarks are made about optimization of the whole exposure system, including grid and magnification technique