Practical applications of Mach band theory in thoracic analysis

One hundred chest case studies provide models for practical applications of Mach band theory for evaluating thoracic anatomy and its transition from normal to abnormal. This image perception theory, a psychophysiological form of edge enhancement, is based on the phenomenon of lateral inhibition within the visual system. ''Positive'' and ''negative'' Mach bands, visualized on routine radiographs, conventional tomograms, and CT scans, are used to evaluate the mediastinum, lung and chest wall. This theory and its relationship to the angle of projection, anatomic contours, film-object density, and background anatomy provide a powerful practical approach for improving diagnostic yield in thoracic analysis