Role of radiology in occupational medicine.
This review discusses the contribution of radiology to occupational medicine as well as work-related problems in radiology departments. Research issues are emphasized. Radiology has been used especially when diagnosing occupational respiratory and locomotive system problems and solvent-induced encephalo- and hepatopathy. The aim of research in these areas is usually to characterize occupational diseases and to identify physico-chemical hazards in the work place by comparing between groups of workers and non-exposed controls. Radiological imaging allows an objective characterization of the disease, and it may clarify the pathogenesis of the process and provide a useful epidemiological tool. Advanced statistical methods are often needed to adjust analyses for confounding variables. As the diagnostic requirements are increasing, more sensitive and sophisticated radiological methods, such as high-resolution computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, may be required for the early recognition of occupational health risks. This necessitates good cooperation between occupational health units and well-equipped imaging departments. Considering occupational problems in radiology departments, the increasing use of digital radiology requires ergonomic measures to control and prevent locomotive problems caused by work with computers. Radiation protection measures are still worth concern, especially in interventional radiology.
Vehmas
T
T
Radiology Unit, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland. tapio.vehmas@ttl.fi
D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011835:Radiation Protection; D011859:Radiography; D011871:Radiology; D012140:Respiratory Tract Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology